A charismatic leader at the heart of apocalyptic beliefs and a mass suicide scare in California.
Reyna Marisol Chicas emerged as a controversial figure in 2010, leading a group that drew national attention due to fears of a mass suicide pact. This group, consisting of Salvadoran immigrants, had broken away from a Christian church in Palmdale, California, and was led by Chicas, a 32-year-old Salvadoran mother of two. The group’s disappearance sparked a significant search by authorities, fueled by concerns from family members and the discovery of farewell letters and personal belongings, suggesting a possible collective suicide.
The group was found safe in a park in Palmdale after a 22-hour search. Despite initial concerns, it was revealed that the group, including Chicas, had no intention of harming themselves but had gathered for prayer and to escape the perceived evil of worldly possessions. Chicas was placed under psychiatric evaluation due to her confusion and inability to recognize her own identity during the encounter with authorities. Her children were taken into custody by child-welfare officials.
This incident highlighted the fine line between religious freedom and the potential for misunderstanding and alarm when apocalyptic beliefs are involved. It also underscored the challenges law enforcement faces in assessing and responding to potential threats of mass suicide among religious groups. The group members insisted that their actions were driven by faith and a desire for spiritual purity, not by a death wish.
