A 31-year-old Cuban, identified as Luis M. Llanta and celebrated in Villa Clara's drag scene under the stage name "Gia," was tragically murdered on Tuesday. This shocking news was shared by several close friends on social media, expressing their deep sorrow over the loss. "Fly high and free, Luis M. Llanta. I just hope justice catches up with the perpetrator. You've left me! I'll carry you in my heart forever!" wrote actress and activist Kiriam Gutiérrez on Facebook.
Journalist Yosmany Mayeta later disclosed, based on accounts from those close to the victim, that Luis was stabbed and beaten. His belongings, including jewelry and a phone, were stolen, although the motive for the crime remains unclear, marked by an apparent act of brutality. "He was hit on the head with a pipe and hidden under the kitchen counter, but the killer's sister urged him to turn himself in, and now he's in custody," a source familiar with the case informed Mayeta Labrada.
The alleged murderer, now reportedly under arrest, claimed Luis M. Llanta owed him 200,000 pesos. However, a friend refuted this claim, noting that Luis had financial resources and access to support if needed.
The Community's Heartfelt Grief
The death of Luis M. Llanta has deeply affected his friends and those who knew him. "Oh, my sister... Luisa, as we used to call you! You've left us in the worst way imaginable, your life taken from you. My friend, how many nights, how many shared experiences. It breaks my heart to write these words. You didn't deserve this. You were a good person, always there for your friends," wrote a friend known as "Cris Diamond" on Facebook.
"May God have mercy on your soul and take you to a place of light, where you belong. God will shield you under His care. You've left us with immense sorrow... I still can't believe this happened. I love you dearly and will always keep you in my memory, Luis M. Llanta. Just yesterday, we were sitting together, and today you're gone. Fly high, brother!" concluded the emotional post.
"Thank you for these years of friendship, the warm hospitality during my visits to Santa Clara, the delightful dishes at Olga's Patio, the beers, the stories, and the conversations until dawn. Happy and unforgettable moments. Thank you for always being so loving and allowing me to contribute to your drag image, an art you were passionate about. Even though it was a short time, you fulfilled your dream. Rest in peace, Luis M. Llanta. What heartbreaking news!" wrote "Ashenal Houston."
As of the close of this report, no other details about the crime have been confirmed.