Two months after the untimely death of Cuban reggaeton sensation José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, better known as El Taiger, his devoted fans gathered at the Cementerio de Colón in Havana to pay tribute to the artist who left an indelible mark on urban music in Cuba. With flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages adorning his grave, which has become a pilgrimage site for his admirers, they expressed their sentiments on this poignant occasion.
"Honor where honor is due. This beautiful tribute to José was truly moving," wrote Facebook user Leandro Peña Gutiérrez, who also shared photos of the gathering.
On October 3, 2024, El Taiger was discovered with a gunshot wound to the head in the back of a Mercedes Benz near Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. He was rushed to the Emergency Intensive Care Unit, where he remained in critical condition for a week until he passed away on October 10. Authorities quickly ruled out suicide and focused their investigation on Damián Valdez-Galloso, also known as "El Narra," identified as a person of interest in the case. A $5,000 reward was offered for information leading to "El Narra's" arrest.
The untimely demise of El Taiger at the age of 37 sent shockwaves through the artistic community and among his followers. His funeral was held on October 19 at the St. Lazarus Catholic Church in Hialeah, Florida. Subsequently, his remains were transported to Cuba to be laid to rest beside his mother, fulfilling his family's wishes.
His manager and close friend, Teresa Padrón, shared a touching Instagram post, expressing the profound void left by his absence. In her message, Teresa wrote: "Today marks 2 months since your sad departure, my dear friend, what a vast emptiness you have left." She also reaffirmed her commitment to seeking justice in his name and ensuring that his legacy endures.
Remembering El Taiger: Key Questions
Who was El Taiger?
El Taiger, whose real name was José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, was a renowned Cuban reggaeton artist known for his significant influence on the urban music scene in Cuba.
What were the circumstances surrounding El Taiger's death?
El Taiger was found with a gunshot wound to the head in a vehicle near a hospital in Miami. He was in critical condition for a week before passing away. His death was ruled out as a suicide, and the investigation focused on a suspect known as "El Narra."
Where was El Taiger buried?
After a funeral service in Hialeah, Florida, El Taiger's remains were transported to Cuba and buried next to his mother, in accordance with his family's wishes.