MIAMI – Newly released surveillance footage has revealed the tragic moment Cuban reggaeton artist El Taiger, born José Manuel Carbajal Zaldivar, was shot outside a Hialeah residence on October 3. The 39-year-old artist was gunned down in a brief confrontation with his alleged killer, 41-year-old Damian Valdez-Galloso. The video shows El Taiger collapsing after being shot in the head, and moments later, Valdez-Galloso is seen dragging the singer’s lifeless body away from the scene. Hours later, the body was discovered in the back of a Mercedes-Benz SUV in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood. El Taiger succumbed to his injuries days later at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
El Taiger, who amassed over 300 million streams on Spotify and was widely celebrated in the reggaeton scene, had a complex and troubled past. In the months leading up to his death, he had faced legal issues, including arrests for drug possession, armed robbery, and assault.
The case has sparked widespread shock and attention, as El Taiger was a prominent figure in the Latin music world. Authorities had suspected that the shooting may have taken place elsewhere before his body was left in the SUV, and Valdez-Galloso, who is in custody, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. As the investigation continues, many in the reggaeton community are grappling with the loss of an artist whose music touched millions.
On October 10, El Taiger passed away, one week after being found critically wounded. Fans have gathered outside Jackson Memorial Hospital, creating makeshift memorials to honor his memory, playing his music and sharing their grief. Fellow artists have also paid tribute to the talented musician, acknowledging the significant mark he made on reggaeton and Latin music.
As Miami police continue their investigation, the reggaeton community and fans worldwide are mourning the untimely loss of a rising star who was taken too soon. El Taiger’s legacy, however, will live on in his music, which continues to resonate with listeners across the globe.
