Cubaton Music Icon El Taiger Dies Following Shooting Incident in Miami

Cuban reggaeton star José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, better known as El Taiger, has tragically passed away at the age of 37, just days after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head in Miami. His family confirmed his death via a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

“On the morning of Friday, October 4, 2024, José Manuel Carvajal, who was affectionately called ‘El Taiger,’ fell victim to a brutal and senseless act of violence. He was discovered near Jackson Memorial Hospital and was quickly transferred to the Emergency Intensive Care Unit,”the family’s announcement detailed.

The shooting took place early in the morning on October 4. Miami police arrived shortly after 7 a.m. in response to an emergency call and located El Taiger inside a black Mercedes SUV at the intersection of NW 17th St. and 10th Ave.

With a gunshot wound to the head, the Urbano artist was rushed to the Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he remained in critical condition until his untimely demise.

The Final Days of El Taiger and Ongoing Investigation

El Taiger endured surgery and spent a week on life support before succumbing to his injuries. The family’s statement continued:

“From the moment he was admitted, a dedicated team of doctors at Jackson Memorial worked relentlessly to provide him with essential care. We express profound gratitude. Unfortunately, this afternoon, El Taiger was declared deceased and is now reunited with his beloved mother in heaven.”

At a press conference soon after the shooting incident, Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales shared insights into the investigation. He mentioned that a person of interest had been identified—an individual who reportedly knew the artist and made the initial 911 call. The investigation is still active, but authorities have not released any further information.

As a prominent figure in the Cubaton genre, which blends traditional Cuban music with reggaeton, El Taiger was celebrated for his unique urban sound. His first album, “Taiger,”debuted in 2016 under the Rottboyz label owned by Puerto Rican hip-hop artist Cosculluela.

El Taiger achieved international fame in 2017 after contributing to the soundtrack of the film “The Fate of the Furious,”where he performed the track “La Habana”with producers Pinto’s Wahin and DJ Ricky Luna.

His music struck a chord with audiences not only in Cuba but throughout the Latin music community. Hits such as “La Historia,””El Papelito,”and “Habla Matador”became quintessential tracks within the reggaeton scene.

His latest collaboration, “Rulay,”featuring Ecuadorian artist Niko G, was released this past summer, showcasing his ongoing impact on Latin music. Following his passing, his family has encouraged fans to remember the joy he spread through his music.

“While this news is both shocking and heartbreaking, we ask fans of El Taiger to celebrate his memory by honoring the joy he brought to many,”the statement on his Instagram stated.

“Turn up your music, dance, and celebrate his life. El Taiger truly represented the spirit of the people, and we must keep that spirit alive through his music and legacy.”

Currently, the Miami Police Department has not disclosed the identity of the suspect linked to El Taiger’s shooting, and their location remains unclear.

His family plans to announce details regarding a memorial service for the artist shortly. They, along with his supporters, aspire for his legacy to continue thriving through the music he so passionately created.

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