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Residents of the city of Homestead, in Miami-Dade County, are shocked by the murder of Álvaro Funes-Salas, a 24-year-old saxophonist of Guatemalan descent, who was shot while walking to his Baptist church on Wednesday night.
The crime occurred around 8:10 p.m. at the intersection of 303 SW 2nd Street, just 1,200 feet from his destination. Álvaro had left his house with his saxophone in hand to attend a rehearsal at his church, but he never arrived.
It is presumed that the motive for the crime was robbery.
According to the moving account of his brother, Valentín Funes, the attackers took Álvaro's wallet, which contained approximately 80 dollars, but left the musical instrument at the crime scene.
"He was carrying his saxophone and also his wallet with about 80 dollars, but the wallet was no longer there... only the saxophone remained," Valentín stated in heartfelt remarks to Univision.
Álvaro had emigrated to the United States two and a half years ago in search of a better life.
Since his arrival, he shared a small house in Homestead with his brother and a cousin, together facing the challenges of settling in a new country.
He worked alongside his family in whatever came up, but he also played the saxophone at the church he attended.
"He was always with me... wherever he went, I went. We shared everything. It hurts me deeply", his brother confessed through tears, mourning the irreparable loss.
The victim's brother has expressed his desire to repatriate his relative's remains to Guatemala.
The Homestead Police Department and the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office have launched an investigation to clarify the murder.
So far, no suspects have been identified, and authorities are asking for the community's cooperation in gathering clues that could lead to the apprehension of those responsible.
People with information about the crime can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 305-471-TIPS.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Murder of Álvaro Funes-Salas in Miami-Dade
Who was Álvaro Funes-Salas?
Álvaro Funes-Salas was a 24-year-old young saxophonist, of Guatemalan origin, residing in Homestead, Miami-Dade. He had emigrated to the United States two and a half years ago in search of a better life and was known for playing the saxophone in his local Baptist church.
How did the murder of Álvaro Funes-Salas occur?
Álvaro Funes-Salas was shot while walking to his church in Homestead, Miami-Dade, on Wednesday night. The attack occurred near the intersection of 303 SW 2nd Street, and it is believed that the motive for the crime was robbery, as the assailants took his wallet.
What actions are the authorities taking to resolve the case?
The Homestead Police Department and the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office have launched an investigation to clarify the murder of Álvaro Funes-Salas. So far, no suspects have been identified, and authorities are asking for the community's assistance in gathering leads that could lead to the capture of those responsible.
How can the community assist in the investigation of the murder of Álvaro Funes-Salas?
The community can collaborate by providing any relevant information about the crime. Anyone with information about the murder can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 305-471-TIPS. Citizen participation is crucial in helping authorities solve this case.
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