The former manager of Cuban reggaeton artist El Taiger, Teresa Padrón, commemorated this October 3rd the first anniversary of the attack that cost the artist his life, in an emotional message posted on her social media.
"On October 3, 2024, my life changed forever. That day I received the hardest news... my brother, my friend, had been shot,” Padrón wrote on Instagram, accompanying his words with a video of José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, the real name of the reggaeton artist.
Since that day, Teresa experienced a journey filled with hope and pain, the days in the hospital, public pressure, criticism, and ultimately, the heart-wrenching farewell.
“On October 10, the farewell I never thought I would face arrived… As I held your hand, watching your life fade away, I felt an indescribable pain,” he recounted harshly. “This year I learned that pain doesn’t go away; you learn to carry it.”
One of the people closest to the performer of “La Historia” and “Habla Matador” also highlighted what this time has taught her about loyalty, loss, and the commitment to preserve her friend's memory.
Today, a year later, I stand strong. Not because the emptiness has healed, but because your legacy and the shared memories accompany me. And although that October will always hurt, it also reminds me that from tragedy was born a mission: to protect your name, your story, your essence… and to seek justice for you,” she wrote.
I miss you more than you can imagine, and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you in my mind and heart. Fly high, my King," concluded Teresa, who has been one of the driving forces behind initiatives to keep the singer's legacy alive.
El Taiger was shot in the head in Miami on October 3, 2024. The artist was urgently hospitalized and remained in critical condition for a week, until he passed away on October 10. His death left a deep mark on the Cuban urban genre and on thousands of fans both on the island and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Anniversary of El Taiger's Murder and the Quest for Justice
Who was El Taiger and how did his death impact Cuban music?
El Taiger, whose real name was José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, was a well-known Cuban reggaeton artist who left a profound mark on the urban genre both in Cuba and abroad. His unexpected death, after being shot in the head, marked a turning point in the Cuban music scene, leaving a void among his followers and peers.
What has Teresa Padrón done to keep El Taiger's legacy alive?
Teresa Padrón has been a key figure in preserving the legacy of El Taiger. As the former manager and close friend of the artist, she has led public campaigns and legal actions to seek justice for his murder. Furthermore, she has organized tributes and memorial events both in Cuba and Miami, and has been at the forefront of initiatives to keep the memory and music of El Taiger alive, including denouncing unauthorized uses of his image.
How is the trial for El Taiger's murder progressing?
The judicial process for the murder of El Taiger has faced multiple delays. The official date for the start of the trial has been set for December 8, 2025. The accused, Damián Valdez Galloso, faces charges of first-degree murder and, if found guilty, could receive a life sentence. Teresa Padrón and El Taiger's supporters continue to demand justice and are closely monitoring the trial's developments.
What has been Teresa Padrón's reaction to the delays in the trial?
Teresa Padrón has expressed her concern and frustration over the constant delays in the trial. She has criticized the lack of progress and fears that an agreement favorable to the defendant may be reached. Padrón has remained active on social media, reaffirming her commitment to seek justice for El Taiger and ensuring that she will not rest until justice is served.
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