DAVID PEINADO
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Migration
At the border between Ciudad Juárez and the United States, a Venezuelan migrant girl screams as she is helped down toward the water. Her family moves with her, crossing the river that marks the boundary between Mexico and the other side.
Migrants step down from a freight train after arriving in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua. Under artificial light, they help one another climb down, even carrying a dog that traveled with them as part of the family on their journey aboard La Bestia, heading toward the border.
A migrant runs along the top of a freight train, looking for a way down, while others have already disembarked after arriving in Ciudad Juárez.
At the border between Ciudad Juárez and the United States, a Venezuelan migrant girl screams as she is helped down toward the water. Her family moves with her, crossing the river that marks the boundary between Mexico and the other side.
Every day, numerous migrants cross the border between Mexico and the United States, with Ciudad Juárez serving as one of the main transit points on their journey north. For many, the crossing marks the beginning of an uncertain stage: some are returned, while others remain in the U.S. with ongoing legal proceedings. The journey doesn’t end at the border—it continues in an unfamiliar environment, where they must adapt, rebuild their lives, and face the challenges of a complex system.
Conflict
In the streets of Ciudad Juárez, a city marked by violence, a burning vehicle was found—reflecting the harsh reality faced by the community.
A bullet hole in a window reveals police officers securing the scene of a crime. According to reports, the incident was a clash between criminal groups that left twelve people dead.
In a rural Ukrainian cemetery, a framed portrait of a young soldier rests atop a freshly dug grave. In the rain, a man stands holding a shovel—an image of silent mourning in a community scarred by war.
In the streets of Ciudad Juárez, a city marked by violence, a burning vehicle was found—reflecting the harsh reality faced by the community.
From 2008 to 2011, Ciudad Juarez held the dubious title of the world's most violent city. Today, it still ranks among the most dangerous places. This border city is teeming with life and culture, yet it's also marked by death. People come here in search of the American dream, but sadly, many find only tragedy.
David Peinado Romero
Independent documentary photographer from Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. His work focuses on portraying reality with a deep commitment to topics such as migration and violence. Self-taught, and with experience in both local studios and respected media outlets, he has documented key moments through photography. His work is characterized by strong journalistic ethics and a genuine connection with the communities he portrays.
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