Ecuadorian police confirmed the murder of the mayor of Ecuador’s Camilo Ponce Enriquez locality, José Sánchez, on Wednesday amid escalating violence against public authorities in Ecuador. Sánchez was jogging with his security team around Nuevo Ponce when individuals armed with rifles arrived in a vehicle and opened fire, according to the police.

In response, the prosecutor’s office initiated an investigation into Sánchez’s murder. Daniel H., who was with the mayor when the crime occurred, was also murdered on Wednesday. Like Sánchez, prosecutors also opened an investigation into Daniel H. The police took the two bodies to the Forensic Center of Machala to perform the corresponding autopsies.

Prefect of the province of Azuay Juan Lloret confirmed on Wednesday night Sánchez’s murder. Lloret indicated:

With helplessness and sobs, news arrived from the municipality of Camilo Ponce Enriquez of the cold-blooded murder of our fellow mayor, José Sánchez. We express our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and to his worthy and noble town that chose him; while demanding that the authorities find those responsible for this new crime that brings mourning to Azuay and Ecuador.

This is not the first time a mayor has been killed in Ecuador’s recent history. In late March, Briggite Garcia was found shot dead on March 24 in a car in San Vicente Canton after being reported missing on March 23. Both of these murders were committed during the state of emergency declared by President Daniel Noboa through Executive Decree No. 110 in January then extended through Executive Decree No. 193 in March.

Due to a recent spike in violence against public authorities, 45 mayors have requested police protection. Only 17 were provided with the protection they requested.