Police Confirm El Taiger Was Victim an Asasination Atempt, offers $5,000 Rewards For Lead to a Person of Interest

In Spanish

Miami police confirmed on Monday October 7, that Cuban reggaetón artist El Taiger was the victim of an assassination attempt, ruling out the possibility that the gunshot wound he suffered to the head was self-inflicted, and offered a reward for information about "a person of interest."

Regarding José Manuel Carvajal's health, one of his representatives, Marcel Reinosa, stated that the artist, who has been hospitalized in critical condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital since Thursday, is showing "slight improvement."

According to Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales, the ongoing investigation by his officers, who have been "working nonstop," has produced "both physical and digital evidence that lead us to believe this was not a suicide attempt."

Morales also named Damián Valdez-Galloso again, known as "El Narra," as a person of interest in the case and called on the public to help find him. A $5,000 reward has been offered to anyone who can provide information regarding his whereabouts.

How is El Taiger?

In an interview with Enrique Santos' show on iHeart Radio, Reinosa expressed hope that the artist, whose real name is José Manuel Carvajal, may recover. This is the first indication that his condition might improve.

"We are seeing small signs of progress in José, who means a lot to us. Doctors confirmed that one of his kidneys has started functioning again, and his body is now regulating its temperature," explained Reinosa.

Reinosa went on to state that El Taiger has not suffered brain death, as initially feared. "In fact, doctors say that the inflammation is beginning to decrease, which is a very positive sign," he noted.

What Happened to El Taiger?

The artist was found in the trunk of a Mercedes SUV on a street in Allapatah, a low-income neighborhood in Miami, with a gunshot wound to the head. Initially, it was unclear if the injury was self-inflicted.

His situation has shocked the Cuban community, both in exile and on the island. Miami and several cities in Cuba have been the setting for vigils and prayers in support of his recovery.

A U.S. immigration lawyer has offered to negotiate a humanitarian visa for some of the artist's family members, who are currently all on the island, so they can visit him during this critical time.

Authorities have stated that anyone with information regarding Valdéz-Galloso or the El Taiger case can contact:

Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS (8477)
or visit the website crimestoppersmiami305.com and select "Give a Tip" to submit a report.

They can also reach the Miami Police Homicide Unit at (305) 603-6350.

Meanwhile, fans in Cuba and the United States are praying for his health.