by San Juan, Puerto Rico – A 25-year-old New York man was tragically killed early Sunday morning in Puerto Rico after attending a Bad Bunny concert, authorities confirmed.
The victim, Kevin Mares of East Elmhurst, Queens, was shot shortly after 4 a.m. local time inside the Refugio de Hombres Maltratados nightclub in the La Perla neighborhood, a coastal area of San Juan known for its high crime rates, according to UPI reports.
A Night Out Turns Tragic
Mares had attended Saturday night’s Bad Bunny performance with his girlfriend and friends. Witnesses say he was an innocent bystander when gunfire erupted during an argument between other patrons.
Police stated that a 46-year-old local man and his 45-year-old sister were also struck by bullets but survived.
“They were standing in the wrong place at the wrong time,” family friend Claudia Saenz told The Daily News.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities say no arrests have been made, and there are no identified suspects at this time. Detective Arnaldo Ruiz noted that investigators are working with “very little” information about what led to the shooting.
Local police believe the incident began as a verbal dispute before one person pulled a gun and opened fire inside the crowded venue.
Community and Family in Mourning
Mares’ family is devastated by the sudden loss. His mother revealed that he had plans to propose to his girlfriend of seven years this fall.
In a statement on social media, New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed his grief:
“I am heartbroken that Kevin’s life was tragically ripped away due to gun violence in Puerto Rico. Condolences and prayers are with all of Kevin’s loved ones grieving this unimaginable loss.”
The Cost of Bringing Him Home
The family is now working with Puerto Rican authorities to bring Kevin’s remains back to New York. The process is estimated to cost at least $23,000, and a GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover the expenses.
The GoFundMe description highlights Kevin’s kind nature and love for his family, noting that his death has left a “hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him.”
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Gun Violence in La Perla
The La Perla neighborhood, while famous for its colorful cliffside homes and historic ties to San Juan, has long battled issues of crime and drug-related violence.
Although it gained global attention after appearing in a music video for Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito”, it remains an area where locals warn visitors to be cautious, especially at night.
Authorities Seek Public Help
Puerto Rican police are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid the investigation.
“We want to bring justice for the victim’s family and hold those responsible accountable,” an officer said in a brief statement.
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