Scores of fans flocked to the Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami to pay tribute to José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, popularly known as El Taiger, who was declared dead on Thursday after being found with a gunshot wound to the head a week ago. According to a report by Univisión 23, the site where he was discovered has turned into a makeshift memorial.
Candles, stuffed animals, and flowers now decorate the area as emotional fans gather to remember the Cuban artist. Support and tributes have been ongoing throughout the day, with people of all ages arriving to pay their respects to the musician, as highlighted by the Univisión 23 report.
Among the attendees, one fan mentioned that her favorite song was “El Hilito Rojo,” expressing that what happened to El Taiger is "a tragedy for the Cuban people." “What happened to him isn't fair, it's unbelievable,” said another tearful admirer, reflecting on El Taiger's impact and legacy in Cuban music. “His death will not be in vain,” vowed another, urging for justice to be served.
Community Calls for Justice
Miami police have urged anyone with information regarding Damian Valdez, a person of interest in the case, to come forward. The community remains hopeful for answers, as the loss of El Taiger continues to resonate deeply among his followers, who promise to keep his legacy alive.
Tributes Extend Beyond the Memorial
The homage to El Taiger has expanded beyond the impromptu memorial outside Jackson Memorial Hospital. On Thursday, several Cuban artists paid tribute on social media, sharing heartfelt messages in memory of the late singer. The renowned Cuban band Los Van Van expressed their sorrow on the social media platform X, recalling several performances shared with the "tireless warrior."
Reggaeton artist Oniel Bebeshito, who collaborated with El Taiger on some recent hits in Cuban urban music, shared his emotions on social media following the confirmation of “La Tranka's” death. “In a black and white world, you were a color in my personal life and career, my brother. Wherever you are, know that the entire country held onto hope until the last moment,” he posted on Instagram.
Cuban singer Alexander Delgado, a founder of Gente de Zona, expressed his deep sorrow on social media: “In shock and heartbroken since hearing the news last Thursday up until today.”
Following the confirmation of El Taiger’s passing, the Cuban Institute of Music extended its "heartfelt condolences" to the singer’s family, friends, and fans in a statement on their Facebook page. "We bid farewell to one of the most recognized figures in the urban genre, who never renounced his Cuban identity and always expressed love for his country," the statement read.
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