Educator Cecil Lewis Matías shot and killed in Santa Isabel

Educator Cecil Lewis Matías was shot and killed on Tuesday in Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico, while collecting donated clothing for people in need. He was 49 years old.

Shooting in Santa Isabel

Cecil Lewis Matías arrived at a residence on Monserrate Street near the Plaza of Santa Isabel after seeing a Facebook post from a woman offering clothing for donation. The educator planned to deliver the items to persons in need. As he left the property, individuals opened fire on him, and he died at the scene.

Investigators found more than 50 bullet casings at the scene, according to the report. Lieutenant Gilberto Lugo stated that authorities are evaluating a theory that the teacher may have been followed to the location, and police are working to identify and locate the individuals responsible for the homicide.

Matías Taught in Santa Isabel and Volunteered for Charity

Matías worked as a teacher and director for approximately 20 years across various schools in Santa Isabel. He worked at Elvira M. Colón School, where he no longer worked about seven years prior to his death. Following the shooting, community members placed a black mourning ribbon outside the school gates in solidarity with his family.

In addition to his career in education, Matías joined Centro Fuente de Esperanza on September 11, 2026, a charitable organization dedicated to assisting low-income individuals and elderly adults living alone. Family members remembered him for his generosity, with his brother stating that Matías would share his own food to help others.

Police Investigate Motive After Matías Warned of Community Violence

Matías had previously expressed concern regarding community violence on social media, sharing photographs of students that included two youths who were subsequently killed.

Puerto Rico Police continue to gather physical evidence and follow multiple leads to establish a motive and identify the suspects involved in the killing.