The Cuban community is in shock following the brutal murder of reggaeton artist José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, popularly known as El Taiger. He was discovered with a gunshot wound to the head on October 3. As the investigation progresses, the Miami Police Department has disclosed crucial details, suggesting this is a complex case that remains unresolved.
The Discovery and Initial Clues
On October 3, authorities found El Taiger critically injured in the rear of a Mercedes Benz SUV, abandoned near the emergency room of Jackson Memorial Hospital. An anonymous tip led police to the scene, where they quickly ruled out suicide. Unfortunately, the artist succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The Miami Police describe the case as a "puzzle," urging the public to come forward with any information that might aid the investigation. According to police spokesperson Freddie Cruz, the vehicle has been identified, and its owner is known, though details have not been made public.
Damián Valdez-Galloso: A Person of Interest
An individual named Damián Valdez-Galloso, known as "El Narra," has surfaced as a significant figure in this investigation. While not a direct suspect, authorities believe he may hold vital information. Valdez-Galloso was reportedly the last person seen with El Taiger the night before the incident and had rented the hotel room where the reggaeton star stayed prior to being shot. Currently on the run, a $5,000 reward is offered for information leading to his capture. Valdez-Galloso's criminal history includes charges of sexual assault on a minor and a robbery arrest in 2021. His arrest warrant has been expanded nationwide throughout the 49 states.
Possible Motives and Theories
The investigation has ruled out suicide, indicating a deliberate crime. The scene revealed disturbing elements, such as gasoline cans on the SUV, prompting various theories about the crime's motive. The Cuban community in Miami demands justice, with public figures like Ana María Polo voicing outrage over the "cruel death" of the artist. "Fly high, Taiger. Now it's our turn to seek justice for your cruel death," the presenter expressed on social media, echoing the grief felt by many fans.
Vigils and Protests in Cuba
El Taiger's murder has reverberated not only in Miami but also in his homeland, Cuba. Unplanned vigils took place in Santiago de Cuba, where fans gathered to honor him. However, Cuban authorities militarized certain gatherings, such as the one in Parque del Reparto El Caney, preventing the vigil from proceeding. Despite this, other areas like Avenida Los Pinos and the Malecón in Santiago witnessed vigils under tight surveillance. The state-run Cuban media's response has been contentious. The newspaper Trabajadores attributed El Taiger's death to "violence in American society," a remark perceived as an attempt to deflect from the fact that the crime occurred in Miami, not Cuba.
Ongoing Investigation
As of October 12, the investigation is active, though no arrests have been made. The search for Valdez-Galloso remains a top priority for Miami police, who consider him essential to solving the case. Authorities emphasize the need for community cooperation, urging anyone with information to contact the police or Crime Stoppers anonymously. The case continues to capture media attention both in Miami and Cuba, as El Taiger's fans await justice and hope the perpetrators are brought to account. As the investigation unfolds, more details are anticipated to emerge that could shed light on this tragic event.