The devastating news of Kevin Mares’ tragic death during a vacation in Puerto Rico left his family and friends in profound grief. Kevin, a 25-year-old from Queens, New York, was shot while enjoying a night out at a bar in La Perla, a neighborhood in Old San Juan. The incident occurred amidst a dispute unrelated to him, yet it resulted in fatal consequences. His father, Hector Mares, expressed the raw pain felt by the family, stating the emotional struggle they are facing as they come to terms with the loss of someone he described as a “beautiful person.”
Kevin was in Puerto Rico for a Bad Bunny concert, a journey he had anticipated with his longtime girlfriend, Angy Nicole Arguello. Angy revealed that they had planned for a future together, with Kevin intending to propose to her after seven years of relationship. This heartbreaking revelation adds another layer of sorrow to the situation, as it signifies the life they had envisioned together that was abruptly cut short. Angy’s grief is palpable; she described being in denial about Kevin’s death, reflecting the overwhelming difficulty of processing such a tragic turn of events.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Kevin was rushed to a local hospital, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Local authorities indicated that the incident was instigated by a dispute in front of the bar, emphasizing that Kevin was an innocent bystander caught up in a situation that had nothing to do with him. This point was reiterated by police Sgt. Arnaldo Ruiz, highlighting the randomness of violence that sometimes spills over into the lives of unsuspecting individuals.
The repercussions of this tragedy extend beyond just the immediate family to a wider community mourning the loss of Kevin. Angy took to social media to share her sorrow, posting heartfelt tributes to her late boyfriend, expressing her disbelief and a deep longing for him. Her messages resonated with many, sparking an outpouring of support for both her and Kevin’s families as they navigate through this difficult period. The community response reflects the profound impact that Kevin had on those around him, embodying qualities of kindness, trustworthiness, and warmth.
In light of the sudden loss, Kevin’s father has initiated a crowdfunding campaign through GoFundMe to assist with the expenses related to bringing his son’s body back to New York. The efforts have garnered significant contributions, exceeding $31,000 by midday Monday, which underscores the compassion and support from friends and acquaintances eager to alleviate the family’s burden during this emotional crisis. The campaign symbolizes a collective effort to honor Kevin’s life and facilitate the grieving family’s wishes.
The family is currently grappling with both their emotional trauma and practical challenges, such as understanding the process involved in repatriating Kevin’s remains and seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding his death. Kevin’s cousin, Christina, expressed a sense of urgency for clarity and closure, underscoring the exhaustion felt by the family as they navigate these multifaceted issues. Through their pain, they are determined to honor Kevin’s memory while seeking justice, ensuring that their beloved son and friend is remembered for the light he brought into their lives.
