Cuban artist José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, better known as El Taiger, has died after suffering a gunshot wound to the head. He was 37 years old.
The popular reggaeton singer passed away on Thursday, October 10 in Miami, his family confirmed in an official statement posted on El Taiger’s Instagram Stories. His death occurred exactly one week after he was shot.
On Oct. 3, just after 7 a.m., officers responded to NW 17th St. 10 Ave and discovered that the musician had been shot in the head in a black Mercedes SUV. Zaldívar was rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center. Although he was operated on and put on life support, he eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Popular reggaeton singer El Taiger in ‘very critical condition’ after being shot in the head in Miami
El Taiger in February 2022 in Coral Gables, Florida.
Johnny Louis/Getty
“From the moment he arrived, the team of doctors at Jackson Memorial worked tirelessly to provide him with the care he needed. We are extremely grateful. During this incredibly difficult time, family, friends and supporters have come together in prayer, hope and support, looking for a miracle. We thank everyone who prayed,” the statement (originally written in Spanish and translated into English) read. “Sadly this afternoon, El Taiger was pronounced dead and is now reunited with his beloved mother in heaven.”
“While this news is shocking and heartbreaking, we encourage El Taiger’s fans to honor his memory by celebrating the joy he brought to so many,” the statement said. “Turn up the music, dance and celebrate his life. El Taiger was the feeling of the people, and now we have to keep that feeling alive through his music and his legacy.”
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El Taiger performs in November 2017 in Coral Gables, Florida.
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Miami police are investigating his death. After the initial incident, on Thursday, Oct. 3, Miami police spokesman Mike Vega told NBC 6 that it has not been released whether or not it was self-inflicted.
Additionally, Zaldívar’s manager, Macel Reinosa, told CBS News Miami that there is a person of interest, noting that it is someone who knows El Taiger and that the person reportedly called 9-1-1. “Nobody on the team believes he committed suicide, based on what they’re saying about the bullet,” Reinosa said.
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Zaldívar was known for his contributions to the Cubaton genre, a fusion of reggaeton and traditional Cuban rhythms. He released his debut album, Taiger, in 2016. The following year, he appeared on The fate of the furious soundtrack of the film with the song “La Habana”. He is also known for his songs “La Historia,” “El Papelito,” “Habla Matador,” and “Rulay.”
Details of the memorial service will be announced later.
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Source: HIS Education