A 25-year-old American tourist, Kevin Mares, was tragically killed in a shooting incident in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Sunday. Mares, who was visiting the Caribbean island for a concert by popular local rapper Bad Bunny, was caught in the crossfire of an argument in La Perla, a neighborhood known for its high crime rate on the outskirts of Old San Juan.
Mares, a veterinary student from New York, was reportedly shot twice while at a popular local hangout. He was rushed to a nearby hospital with wounds to his abdomen and side but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Two other individuals, both residents of La Perla, were also shot during the incident and are currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
The young man, who was planning to propose to his longtime girlfriend later this year, was described as an innocent bystander in the incident. Mares had traveled to Puerto Rico with three friends to attend the Bad Bunny concert, part of a 30-show residency that has attracted thousands of American tourists to the island.
Mares, who hailed from East Elmhurst, Queens, was known for his hard work and dedication. He balanced two part-time jobs while pursuing his studies in veterinary medicine. His family, speaking to CBS News, expressed their desire for justice in the wake of their son’s untimely death.
Friends and family remembered Mares as a deeply loved individual who was a source of inspiration to all who knew him. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with the costs of repatriating his body. The page describes Mares as a kind-hearted individual with an adventurous spirit and a strong commitment to his family.
The neighborhood of La Perla has a long-standing reputation for crime and violence. Despite a significant federal raid in 2011 that curbed some of the criminal activity, the area remains dangerous. In recent years, there have been several incidents involving tourists, including a stabbing in 2023 and a murder in 2024.
Local authorities are still searching for the shooter. Mares’ family is currently working with officials in Puerto Rico to bring their son’s body back to Queens for funeral arrangements. They have appealed to the public for any information regarding the shooting.