The search for 10-year-old Dulce Victoria came to a heartbreaking end after two agonizing days. The young girl, who had gone missing after falling into the Lerma River, was tragically found lifeless on Saturday morning, extinguishing all hope of a safe return and sending a wave of sorrow through the community of Salamanca.
Officials confirmed the devastating news in a statement released by the Salamanca Municipal Government, which read, “With profound respect, we regret to inform the public of the recovery of the body of a 10-year-old girl who fell into the Lerma River in the Pitayo community last Thursday.” The message expressed condolences and solidarity with Dulce’s grieving family, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to handle such tragedies with humanity and responsibility.
Dulce’s disappearance had prompted an urgent, large-scale search effort involving multiple agencies. Rescue teams from neighboring municipalities including Irapuato, Pueblo Nuevo, and Huanímaro joined forces with divers, the Salamanca Fire Department, the Red Cross, and Civil Protection units. The relentless operation, led in part by Liborio Vázquez and the dedicated Salamanca Rescue Brigade, ultimately located Dulce’s body—an outcome no one had hoped for, but one that brought necessary closure.
The incident began around 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, when emergency services were alerted to two children caught in the river’s strong current. According to reports, Dulce and another child had been playing near the water when they fell in. While the boy managed to cling to a tree and was eventually rescued, Dulce was swept away. His account of the events helped shape the initial search parameters, but despite the urgent response, Dulce could not be found in time.
The tragic story of Dulce Victoria has shaken Salamanca and reminded many of the unpredictable dangers children can face, even during moments of innocent play. In the wake of the tragedy, the community has come together in mourning, honoring the memory of a young girl whose life ended far too soon.
Though no words can ease the family’s pain, the outpouring of support from the public, rescue teams, and local authorities speaks volumes about the strength of compassion during times of loss. Dulce’s story is now part of Salamanca’s collective heart—a somber reminder of how precious, fragile, and fleeting life can be.