The Cuban reggaeton artist known as “El Taiger,” whose real name is José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, has died at the age of 37 in Miami, Florida, almost a week after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head.

Carbajal Zaldívar was discovered severely wounded in the rear of a black Mercedes-Benz SUV on October 4, 2024, in the vicinity of Jackson Memorial Hospital, situated in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami. He succumbed to his injuries on October 10, as confirmed by a statement posted on his official Instagram account.

The Spanish-written Instagram announcement conveyed gratitude for the massive support from fans during the challenging week following his injury. It also extended thanks to the medical personnel at Jackson Memorial Hospital for their efforts to save the musician’s life. “El Taiger is now reunited with his mother in heaven,” the statement read, with his family expressing gratitude to those who kept him in their thoughts and prayers.

According to Miami Police Chief Manuel A. Morales, Carbajal Zaldívar was in “very critical condition” when he arrived at the hospital and underwent emergency surgery. Police believe that he was shot elsewhere and then transported to a location near the hospital.

The investigation into his death is still underway, and police are actively looking for Damian Valdez-Galloso, 49, a person of interest. Valdez-Galloso, a convicted felon and registered sex offender, is believed to be the last person seen with the artist. Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers are urging anyone with information about Valdez-Galloso’s whereabouts to get in touch.

Artists who are familiar with El Taiger reported that “El Narra” supplied drugs to the reggaeton performer, whom he regarded as a friend and would enthusiastically introduce at gatherings. The dealer rented the hotel room where the artist slept the night before the attack. A robust police operation was set up at El Narra’s home in Hialeah, but he was not present, and his phone was powered off. Miami police are providing a $5,000 reward for any information that can assist in locating him, as they think he possesses valuable details that could aid in resolving the case.

A memorial service for Carbajal Zaldívar was held at the location where the singer was found near Jackson Memorial Hospital on Northwest 17th Street in Miami. On the night of his death, grieving fans congregated to commemorate him. His music, played by passing vehicles, provided a solemn atmosphere to the vigil. Attendees left candles, flowers, stuffed animals, and personal messages, forming a moving tribute to a cherished figure in the Cuban community.

Jonathan Esponda, a close friend of Carbajal Zaldívar, spoke about how El Taiger was more than just a talented singer; he was a significant influence within their community. Fan Daniel Andrade shared how the artist’s music and dance brought joy and created memorable moments. Both Esponda and Aracely Quijano echoed the community’s call for justice, expressing hope that those responsible would be held accountable.

Cuban artist Oniel Bebeshito expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “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.”

Carbajal Zaldívar, a significant figure in the reggaeton genre, released several singles and EPs during his career, gaining him a substantial fan base. His latest track, “Bonita,” was released in May. He encountered legal issues over the summer, facing charges of strong-arm robbery and resisting an officer, to which he pleaded not guilty. Despite these legal troubles, he remained a beloved figure amongst his fans, who rallied around him in hopes of his recovery.