The music community and fans of young artist DELAROSA continue to be in shock after new details about her murder were revealed. Los Angeles County authorities confirmed that three men have been officially charged with murder in the death of the singer, who lost her life last weekend in a violent episode that prosecutors have described as “an ambush-style attack”.
According to the report issued on November 26 by County Attorney Nathan Hochman, the events occurred during the early morning hours of Saturday, November 22. Maria De La Rosa, 22 – professionally known as DELAROSA – was inside a parked car with two companions in a residential neighborhood in Northridge, north of Los Angeles.
It was at that moment when, according to the preliminary investigation, three men approached the vehicle directly, presumably with the intention of intimidating and demanding money. Then, without giving the victims time to react, the assailants allegedly opened fire indiscriminately, shooting repeatedly at the occupants of the car.
The singer was shot and, despite subsequent medical efforts, was fatally wounded. According to a statement from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), she was taken to an area hospital, where she eventually died of her injuries. The other two people accompanying her were also hit by the bullets, leaving them in critical condition.
The alleged perpetrators were identified as:
Francisco Otilio Gaytan, 27 years old
Benny LiconGomez, 27 years old
Eduardo López, 21 years old
All are residents of Northridge. Gaytan was arrested hours after the crime, while LiconGomez was arrested on Sunday, November 23. In Lopez’s case, authorities issued a warrant for his arrest, which remains active.
DELAROSA Crime: Official Charges and Statements
Prosecutor Hochman called the attack “vicious and targeted,” lamenting the loss of a young artist with an up-and-coming career. He also noted the profound emotional impact the crime has left on the survivors and the performer’s family.
The three defendants were charged with: One count of murder (felony), Two counts of attempted robbery in the second degree, One count of attempted robbery in the third degree, and One count of attempted robbery in the fourth degree.
For the time being, authorities have indicated that the motive for the attack remains unclear, and the investigation is still active.
Days before her death on October 30, DELAROSA shared her last post on Instagram, previewing snippets of her new music. She wrote: “Busy cooking at the Stu, don’t call me… It’s time. GAME TIME BABY.”
A message that today many followers remember with nostalgia.
His latest song, “No Me Llames”, was released in August and became one of his most talked about works of the year.
After learning of his death, urban colleagues and fans flooded the networks with tributes. Colombian singer Sharik wrote: “I will always love you”. Meanwhile, Juan Moises, lead singer of Los Gemelos de Sinaloa, shared an emotional tribute with three emojis of doves, a symbol of peace and farewell.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
