Cuban artist dies aged 37 after being shot in the head

Cuban artist José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, better known as El Taiger, has died. He was 37 years old. The Urbano singer died on Thursday (October 10), a week after being shot in the head, his family confirmed in an official statement on El Taiger’s Instagram Stories.

“On the morning of Friday, October 4, 2024, Jose Manuel Carvajal, known as ‘El Taiger’, was the victim of a senseless violent crime. “He was found near Jackson Memorial Hospital and immediately taken to the emergency intensive care unit,” the statement said. “From his arrival, a 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 joined together in prayer, hope and support and hoped for a miracle. We thank everyone who offered their prayers. “Sadly, El Taiger was pronounced dead this afternoon and is now reunited with his beloved mother in heaven.”

El Taiger is one of the most popular Cubaton artists (a genre that combines reggaeton with traditional Cuban rhythms) and is known for his urban sound with Cuban roots, evident in songs such as “La Historia”, “El Papelito” and “Habla Matador”. hear is. His debut album, Taigerwas released on Puerto Rican hip-hop artist Cosculluela’s Rottboyz label in 2016 and was featured on the label in 2017 Fate of the Furious Film soundtrack for “Wahin” by producer Pinto and “La Habana” by DJ Ricky Luna. His latest production “Rulay” in collaboration with Ecuadorian newcomer Niko G was released this summer.

According to a press conference held by the chief of the Miami Police Department last week, officers responded to a call just after 7 a.m. on Oct. 3 where they found a man in a black vehicle suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. El Taiger was then taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he underwent surgery and remained in critical condition until his death. billboard reached out to Miami police for an update on the investigation but did not receive a response as of press time.

“While this news is both shocking and heartbreaking, we encourage El Taiger’s fans to honor his memory by celebrating the joy he brought to so many,” the family’s statement continued. “Turn up your music, dance and celebrate his life. El Taiger was the feeling of the people, and now we must keep that feeling alive through his music and his legacy.”