SAN JUAN, PR — A fatal shooting in San Juan’s La Perla neighborhood has left one tourist dead, two others injured, and both locals and visitors demanding urgent action from Puerto Rican authorities. The victim has been identified as Kevin Mares, 25, of Queens, New York. Mares was visiting the island with his girlfriend to attend a Bad Bunny concert when tragedy struck late Friday night.

According to police, Mares and his girlfriend were at a local bar in La Perla when he allegedly exchanged words with a group of men. The verbal dispute quickly escalated, and gunfire erupted moments later. Two other individuals sustained injuries during the incident and are receiving medical treatment at local hospitals. Their identities and conditions have not yet been released.

The Puerto Rico Police Bureau has launched an investigation, with forensic teams processing the crime scene and interviewing witnesses. Authorities have not confirmed whether the attack was targeted or random, and no arrests had been made as of Saturday morning. La Perla, a historic oceanfront community adjacent to Old San Juan’s famous city walls, has long been a complex paradox—celebrated for its colorful murals and cultural significance, yet marred by intermittent violence.

The neighborhood rose to global attention after featuring in music videos, most notably Luis Fonsi’s Despacito, but safety concerns have persisted for years. The killing of Mares has triggered international headlines and an outpouring of grief. Friends and family members have flooded social media with tributes, describing him as “full of life” and “the kind of person who made everyone feel welcome.” Tourists and locals alike have voiced frustration over what they see as inadequate safety measures in high-traffic visitor areas.

San Juan, Puerto Rico Tourist Incident Sparks International Outpouring of Grief and Calls for Safety Action

Criticism has also been directed at Puerto Rico’s government for continuing to promote La Perla as a tourist destination despite its security challenges. “They keep marketing this place without fixing the safety issues,” one San Juan resident wrote on Twitter.

“It’s dangerous for both locals and visitors.” San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero called the killing “a senseless act of violence” and vowed to work closely with law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice. As police continue their investigation, the incident has reignited debate over tourism, community safety, and the responsibility of local authorities to protect residents and visitors in one of Puerto Rico’s most visited areas.