Mission President Shot During Home Invasion in Mexico City
In a troubling incident, R. Tyler Wallis, a 56-year-old mission president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was shot during an attempted robbery at his home in Mexico City early Saturday morning. This alarming event took place around 2 a.m., leaving the local community and church members in shock.
Wallis was reportedly shot below the chest but is now in stable condition after receiving treatment at a nearby medical center. Fortunately, his wife, Elizabeth, who was also at home during the break-in, was unharmed. The couple had only recently moved to Mexico City to fulfill their mission, having previously lived in Orlando, Florida.
According to church spokesperson Sam Penrod, the church is cooperating fully with local authorities as they investigate the incident. He reassured the congregation that all other missionaries in the area are safe. Penrod expressed the church’s gratitude for the countless volunteers serving across the globe, extending messages of love and peace during this trying time.
Details surrounding the home invasion remain unclear. However, a family friend described it as a miracle that Wallis survived. The friend revealed that the assailant shot Wallis with a 9mm weapon, but the bullet miraculously exited without hitting vital organs or arteries. “It’s truly an undeniable miracle that he is not dead,” the friend noted.
Elizabeth called upon friends and family for prayers, urging them to “wake up and pray” for her husband. Adding to the distress, she shared that he was shot twice during the attack, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
The Wallis family has been in Mexico City since July and oversees missionary activities for the church, which is part of a larger group of leaders operating across the country. Before his mission work, Wallis held a prominent role as the executive vice president of a telecommunications company. He and Elizabeth have four children, though it remains uncertain if they were present during the shooting.
This incident raises concerns about safety not only for church leaders but also for the many families residing in Mexico. In recent years, violent crime has become a significant issue in various parts of the country, prompting discussions about safety measures among residents and community members.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a significant presence in Mexico, with 17 other mission leaders working in the country, contributing to local communities and spreading their message. Many church members are rallying around the Wallis family, sharing their thoughts and prayers on social media.
As the investigation continues, the Wallis family and their supporters are hopeful for a swift recovery and return to fulfilling their mission in service of their community. The resilience of faith and hope shines even in challenging circumstances, reminding everyone involved of the importance of cooperation and support during tough times.
In times like these, communities are reminded of the value of safety and the critical need for awareness. As local authorities work to ensure justice, many are left to reflect on the challenges faced by individuals committed to serving others, often at their own peril.
