José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, widely known by his stage name “El Taiger,” died at the age of 37, six days after sustaining a gunshot injury to the head in Miami, Florida.
The Cuban reggaeton artist, recognized for his dynamic performances and musical contributions, was discovered critically wounded in the rear of a black Mercedes-Benz SUV on October 4, 2024. The vehicle was found near Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami’s Allapattah district. Zaldívar succumbed to his injuries on October 10, as reported via an official statement on his Instagram page.
The Spanish-language Instagram post thanked fans for the immense support during the challenging week after the shooting. It also acknowledged the medical staff at Jackson Memorial Hospital for their efforts to save the singer. “El Taiger is now reunited with his mother in heaven,” the statement read, with his family expressing gratitude to all who remembered him in their prayers.
According to Miami Police Chief Manuel A. Morales, Zaldívar was in a critical state when he reached the hospital and immediately underwent emergency surgery. It is suspected that the shooting occurred elsewhere, and he was then moved close to the hospital premises.
The police investigation continues, and law enforcement is currently searching for Damian Valdez-Galloso, identified as a person of interest. Valdez-Galloso, a convicted felon and registered sex offender, was reportedly the last individual seen with Zaldívar. Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers are urging anyone with information about Valdez-Galloso’s location to come forward.
A memorial for El Taiger was held where he was discovered near Jackson Memorial Hospital on Northwest 17th Street in Miami. On the night of his death, fans assembled to pay their respects to the 37-year-old artist. A procession of cars playing his music added a solemn tone to the vigil. Attendees left candles, flowers, stuffed toys, and personal notes, constructing a heartfelt homage to a cherished member of the Cuban community.
Jonathan Esponda, a close associate of Zaldívar, commented on El Taiger’s talents and the significant impact he had on their community. Fan Daniel Andrade reflected on the joy and memorable moments the artist brought through his music and dance. Both Esponda and Aracely Quijano echoed the community’s demand for justice, expressing the hope that those accountable would be brought to justice.
Oniel Bebeshito, a fellow Cuban artist, expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, “In a black and white world, you were a color in my personal life and in my career, my brother. Wherever you are, I want you to know that an entire country had faith until the last minute.”
A key player in the reggaeton scene, El Taiger had released several singles and EPs throughout his career, amassing a significant fan base. His latest track, “Bonita,” was released in May. Despite facing legal issues, including charges of strong-arm robbery and resisting a police officer, to which he pleaded not guilty, he continued to enjoy popularity among his fans, who hoped for his recovery.
The Miami Police Department is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest in connection with the incident.