# Kevin Mares: Queens Man Killed in Puerto Rico Shooting While attending Bad Bunny Concert
Kevin Mares, a 26-year-old New York man with a bright future, was tragically shot adn killed in Puerto Rico while traveling with his girlfriend and friends to attend a Bad Bunny concert.The shooting, which occurred in the La Perla neighborhood of San Juan, has left his family devastated and seeking justice. As of this writing, two siblings from La Perla remain hospitalized with injuries sustained in the same incident, and no arrests have been made.
## A Dream Trip Turned Tragic
Mares, a lifelong Bad Bunny fan, had been planning the trip to Puerto Rico for months. He and his friends consistently attended the singer’s concerts whenever he performed in New York. This trip, however, ended in unimaginable heartbreak.”Every time Bad Bunny comes here, they go to most all of his concerts,” said Kevin’s mother, Sandra Mares, reflecting on her son’s passion for the music.
The news of Kevin’s death was delivered to his parents by his girlfriend, who had been with him in Puerto Rico.”I said,’What happened?’ She said,’I’m sorry. We lost him,’ ” recounted a grief-stricken Hector mares, Kevin’s father, to CBS News New York. His mother added,”Whoever did this,took from us a piece of us,you know?”
## A Life Full of Promise
Born and raised in the East Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens,Kevin Mares was a dedicated student and a loving son. He was studying to become a veterinarian at LaGuardia Community College while simultaneously working as a veterinary technician.”He got a lot of dreams. He was working as a vet technician. And at the same time he was studying,” his father explained to ABC 7 New York. His ambition extended beyond his career; Kevin was planning to propose to his girlfriend this fall, envisioning a special moment to solidify their future together.
“He wanted to do something special. He shared that with us,” Sandra Mares shared, her voice filled with sorrow. ”He was a lovely son. He cared about all of us, his family, friends. He has a lot of friends who’s really going to miss him, too.”
## Seeking Answers and Justice
The Mares family is now pleading for anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. They are desperate for answers and for justice for their son.
“What we’re asking the people is, if anybody knows what happened, who did this, [to say something],” Sandra Mares implored to CBS news. ”We don’t know [anything].We want justice.”
Currently, Kevin’s body remains in Puerto Rico as authorities continue their examination. The family is working diligently to bring him home.
## Supporting the Mares Family
To help cover the costs of bringing Kevin home and arranging his funeral, his father, hector Mares, has launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $50,000.
The GoFundMe page eloquently describes Kevin: “Kevin Mares was a deeply loved son, devoted friend, and a source of inspiration to everyone who knew him. His wholehearted kindness, adventurous spirit, and unwavering commitment to family made him a pillar of strength for his loved ones.” It continues, ”Family was at the center of everything he did, and his sudden passing has left an unfillable void in our lives. … Your support will help us honor Kevin’s memory and give him the farewell he deserves.”
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact Puerto Rican authorities. The loss of Kevin Mares is a tragedy that has deeply impacted his family, friends, and community, and they are determined to find those responsible and ensure justice is served.
