In January 2006, Mexico City's most wanted serial killer was finally caught—but the capture shocked a nation. For years, authorities hunted "El Mataviejitas," believing they were chasing a brilliant male predator who targeted elderly women. The truth was far more disturbing: the killer was Juana Barraza, a professional wrestler and mother who used her wrestling persona "La Dama del Silencio" to hide in plain sight.

This episode explores Mexico's first female serial killer case, revealing how gender bias blinded investigators for years while Barraza methodically murdered at least 16 elderly women. From her traumatic childhood to her double life as both devoted mother and calculating predator, we uncover how she exploited society's blind spots and why her victims mattered when thousands of other murdered women didn't.

A chilling examination of prejudice, politics, and the hierarchy of whose lives matter in modern Mexico.

Content warning: This episode contains discussions of violence, murder, and sexual assault.

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About Latin Noir

Exploring Latin America's most compelling criminal cases with respect for victims while examining the social forces behind these tragedies. Hosted by Elias Crowe.

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