A tragic incident occurred in Puerto Rico on Sunday, August 10, when 25-year-old Kevin Mares, a New York resident visiting the island for a Bad Bunny concert, was shot and killed in the coastal neighborhood of La Perla.
Mares was among a group of friends who had traveled to Puerto Rico for one of the musician’s 30 residency concerts.
The Shooting Incident
According to reports from the Associated Press and CBS News, Mares was in La Perla, a neighborhood on the outskirts of Old San Juan, when a fight broke out between two other individuals.
While Mares was reportedly a bystander in the altercation, one of the individuals involved pulled out a gun and began shooting, hitting Mares in the left side of his abdomen. He was immediately rushed to Puerto Rico’s largest public hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Homicide Detective Sgt. Arnaldo Ruiz, who spoke to the Associated Press, confirmed that the shooter fired at least three people, including two local men, who were also injured and hospitalized.
Investigators are still in the early stages of determining the motive behind the shooting. “We can’t rule anything out until the interviews are completed,” Ruiz stated.
La Perla and Its History
La Perla, where the shooting occurred, is a coastal community known for its history of violence. For years, police were hesitant to patrol the area until 2011 when federal agents raided it. Since then, the neighborhood has seen increased tourism.
While La Perla is close to Old San Juan, a popular tourist district, it remains an area that locals and visitors alike are advised to approach with caution, given its past.
Mares’ Family Remembers Him
Mares’ family, who is grieving the loss of their loved one, described him as a deeply loved son and devoted friend. In a heartfelt GoFundMe post, they remembered Kevin for his kindness, adventurous spirit, and unwavering commitment to family.
He was planning to propose to his girlfriend of six years later this year. The family has created the fundraiser to help with the costs of transferring his body from Puerto Rico to New York and to hold a funeral.
“Kevin had a bright future ahead, with plans to propose to his girlfriend of six years this fall, and he was always creating memories with those closest to him,” the family wrote. They also noted that his sudden passing has left a profound and unfillable void in their lives.
The Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify the shooter, who remains at large. The motive behind the altercation is still unknown, and police are gathering information from witnesses to piece together the details.
The shooting has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory trip for Mares and his friends.
This tragic event has left the community mourning the loss of a young man with a promising future, and his family, friends, and loved ones are now focused on honoring his memory while seeking justice for his untimely death.
