The State Attorney’s Office has released new evidence in the murder case of Cuban reggaeton rapper El Taiger.
Recently released police body camera footage captures the dramatic moment officers found the artist still alive, lying in the trunk of his Mercedes SUV, abandoned just steps away from Jackson Memorial Hospital.
A Shocking Discovery
El Taiger, whose real name was José Carvajal Saldívar, was 37 years old at the time of the attack. He had suffered a gunshot wound to the head when officers discovered him near the hospital.
Investigators believe he was shot elsewhere, placed inside the vehicle, and then abandoned close to the hospital in an apparent attempt to leave him near medical care.
Surveillance Video Links Suspect to Crime
Authorities had previously released surveillance footage from December, which showed El Taiger walking toward the home of his suspected killer in Hialeah just hours before the attack.
Shortly after, a visibly injured El Taiger was seen being dragged away in the footage.
Additional video evidence shows another individual who may have been an accomplice to the crime, though police have not confirmed any charges against a second suspect.
Fans Held Onto Hope, But the Rapper Didn’t Survive
El Taiger had a devoted fan base, many of whom gathered outside Jackson Memorial Hospital, hoping for a miracle. Unfortunately, despite medical efforts, the rapper died days after the shooting.
Suspect Arrested in New York
The primary suspect, 50-year-old Damián Valdez Galloso, a convicted felon, was arrested in New York.
Valdez Galloso has been charged with first-degree murder in El Taiger’s death. He remains in custody without bond, and his attorney has entered a not-guilty plea.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue their investigation, and more details may emerge regarding the motive and any potential accomplices. Fans and the Latin music community continue to mourn the loss of one of Cuba’s most beloved reggaeton artists.