File No. 812.00/21613
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Mexico ( Summerlin)
681. Consul, Guaymas, telegraphs that on January 2 Southern Pacific southbound train was attacked by 800 Yaqui Indians near Empalme, about 36 persons being killed and same number wounded. Following Americans were killed or wounded: Henderson G. Poe, killed; Ralph R. Stoval, probably fatally wounded; Albert Jofferoy, seriously wounded; A. Suarez, believed among unidentified dead.
A telegram just received from Consul reads in substance as follows:
State Government took no action to secure additional troops and yesterday’s unspeakable massacre occurred. Women and children were cut to pieces with knives, girls were stripped naked and carried into captivity within an hour’s ride from Empalme where hundred or more Americans live and where no garrison at all maintained. No aggressive movement has yet been started against the Indians since plans of campaign were announced in August. Absolutely no attempt has been made to follow and punish them.
Immediately acquaint Mexican Government with foregoing and urgently request that prompt steps be taken to suppress Indians in Senora, and at same time call Government’s attention to Embassy’s previous representations to the effect that Americans in Sonora were in danger of attack by said Indians because of inadequate military protection. Add that this Government expects that energetic action will be taken to cope with the situation, and that adequate and permanent garrisons will be stationed at points of danger to travelers and settlers. Request to be informed of action taken by Mexican Government, and telegraph.