MEXICO CITY -- A missionary couple formerly of Amarillo was found slain outside Monterey, officials confirmed.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, the couple was identified as John and Wanda Casias. The former Amarillo couple's family has been notified, the Associated Press reported.
The Embassy is providing relatives consular services. It has yet to confirm reports that the couple was killed on Tuesday.
John Casias' oldest child, Valerie Alirez in Greeley, Colo, said he along with his wife were found dead on Tuesday in Santiago, Nuevo Leon, by one of her brothers.
Monterey is an industrial city plagued by drug violence.
The Casias' website said their ministry extended into Mexico through churches organized by the couple.
The following statement was posted to the couple's website:
On Janury 31st 2012
John and Wanda graduated to be with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ as their lives were suddenly taken in a home invasion.
Thank you all for your prayers and your continued support for the Ministry they started 29 years ago in The Republic of Mexico. Their love for the Mexican people and the burden they had for winning souls to the Lord will always be remembered.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
