A young missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has passed away. Church spokesman Daniel Woodruff released the following statement Saturday, March 28, 2020:

Three missionaries serving in the Dominican Republic Santiago Mission were involved in a car accident this afternoon. Tragically, Elder Israel Emmanuel Ramírez Díaz, age 20, from Ecatepec, Mexico, passed away in that accident. He had been serving since April 2018. Two other missionaries with Elder Ramirez at the time -- Elder Jonata Maia Oliveira, age 20, from Fortaleza, Brazil, and Elder Brigham Darian Tovar Noriz, age 20, from Atotonilco de Tula, Hidalgo, Mexico, were both injured and are receiving medical attention. We are working with local authorities as they investigate the crash.

We express our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Elder Ramírez who have witnessed his valuable contribution among those whose lives he touched. May the Lord give them comfort and strength at this difficult time. We pray sincerely for Elder Oliveira and Elder Tovar as they recover, and the Church is working to ensure they receive the best care available.