A Mexican Pastor was shot and killed in his car following a church service Sunday.

Alfrery Líctor Cruz Canseco, the pastor of Fraternidad Cristiana Church in Oaxaca, Mexico, has passed away after an attack on his life.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) reports that the attacker attempted to escape after shooting Canseco, but was prevented from leaving the scene by members of the pastor's congregation, who ensured his capture by authorities.

Canseco passed away on the way to the hospital due to the injuries he sustained from the August 18 attack.

The motive behind the attack remains unknown at this time but follows a recent trend of attacks against religious leaders in the country.

CSW Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas expressed condolences to Canseco's family, friends, and congregants. He also called on the Mexican government to offer greater protection to religious leaders.

“We urge the Mexican government to guarantee protection for civilian populations in areas under a strong influence of criminal groups and develop strategies to support all religious leaders who are under threat. The government must recognise the role that religious leaders play, not only as leaders of their churches, but also as voices for peace, justice and integrity, and human rights defenders, and afford them greater protection.”

A greater presence of violent criminal groups within Mexico and tolerance of such violent acts have contributed to the dangerous environment currently seen within the country.