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Cuban reggaeton artist José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, professionally known as El Taiger, has passed away at the age of 37, a week after being shot in the head in Miami. His death was confirmed by his family in a statement posted on his Instagram stories on Thursday, October 10, 2024.
"On the morning of Friday, October 4, 2024, José Manuel Carvajal, known as ‘El Taiger,’ was the victim of a senseless violent crime. He was found near Jackson Memorial Hospital and immediately transported to the Emergency Intensive Care Unit," the statement reads.
Taiger was shot on the morning of October 4, 2024. Miami police responded to a call just after 7 a.m. and found him inside a black Mercedes SUV near NW 17th St. and 10th Ave.
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The artist had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was immediately transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center. The Urbano singer had been in critical condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital until his passing.
El Taiger's final days and the investigation
El Taiger underwent surgery and remained on life support for 7 days before succumbing to his injuries. The statement further stated:
"From the moment of his arrival, a team of physicians at Jackson Memorial worked tirelessly to provide him with the care he needed. We are extremely grateful. Sadly, this afternoon, El Taiger was pronounced dead and is now reunited with his beloved mother in heaven."
At a press conference held shortly after the incident, Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales provided an update on the investigation. He stated that a person of interest was identified, someone who allegedly knew the artist, and placed the initial 911 call. The investigation is ongoing, but no further updates have been provided by authorities at this time.
One of the most popular figures in the Cubaton genre, a fusion of traditional Cuban rhythms with reggaeton, El was widely known for his distinct urban sound. His debut album Taiger was released in 2016 under Puerto Rican hip-hop artist Cosculluela’s label Rottboyz.
He also gained international recognition in 2017 when he was featured on the Fate of the Furious movie soundtrack, contributing to the track La Habana with producers Pinto's Wahin and DJ Ricky Luna.
Taiger’s music resonated with fans not only in Cuba but also across the Latin music scene. His songs like La Historia, El Papelito, and Habla Matador became staples in the reggaeton genre.
His most recent release, Rulay, a collaboration with Ecuadorian artist Niko G, came out this past summer, continuing his contributions to Latin music. In the wake of his passing, his family urged fans to remember the joy he brought to the world through his music.
"While this news is both shocking and heartbreaking, we encourage fans of El Taiger to honor his memory by celebrating the joy he brought to so many," the statement on his Instagram read.
"Turn up your music, dance, and celebrate his life. El Taiger was the sentiment of the people, and now we must keep that sentiment alive through his music and his legacy."
As of now, the Miami Police Department has not released the name of the suspect connected to El Taiger's shooting. His whereabouts are also currently unknown.
Details regarding a memorial service for Taiger are expected to be announced soon, according to his family’s statement. His family and supporters hope that his legacy will live on through the music he created.
