This Sunday, August 10, 2025, the life of Kevin Mares, a 25-year-old Hispanic man living in New York, was tragically extinguished during his vacation in Puerto Rico. He traveled to the island to enjoy with friends and attend a Bad Bunny concert, but ended up caught in the middle of a shooting in the La Perla community of San Juan.
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 4 a.m. at a nightclub, following an argument that quickly escalated into armed violence. Kevin Mares was shot in the abdomen and side, and although he was rushed to the Río Piedras Medical Center, he did not survive the wounds.
Injuries and search for the person responsible
In the same attack where Kevin Mares lost his life, two local residents, a man and a woman, both in quarantine, were injured.
They were treated at a nearby hospital and their health condition is unknown at this time.
Police found a firearm magazine in a nearby alley, but did not find any shell casings.
This could indicate the use of a modified weapon or devices that avoid ballistic traces.
The authorities are keeping the investigation open and have requested the cooperation of the public to find the person responsible.
A broken family and a relief campaign
The death of Kevin Mares has left his family devastated.
He was a beloved son, a loyal friend and a young man with big plans for the future, including proposing marriage to his girlfriend of six years this fall.
He studied to become a veterinarian and worked two jobs to achieve his goals.
In response to the tragedy, her loved ones started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to transport her body from Puerto Rico to New York and cover funeral expenses.
The response from the community has been overwhelming, with thousands of people contributing in support and solidarity.
La Perla: beauty and risk
Buzzy
La Perla is a coastal neighborhood that is the scene of rehabilitation projects, but also retains a reputation for crime.
Although it is visited by tourists and has been featured in international musical productions, episodes of violence such as the one that occurred rekindle warnings about the need for extreme caution in certain areas of the island.
Kevin Mares’ story is a painful reminder that even a celebratory trip can be cut short by violence.
It also underscores the importance of prevention and community solidarity in times of crisis.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
