Bad Bunny Fan Killed in Puerto Rico After Traveling to Island For Show

Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 10:10 GMT by tmz.com
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Kevin Mares -- a Bad Bunny fan who traveled down to Puerto Rico to see the artist -- has been shot and killed.

Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Devoted Bad Bunny Fan in Puerto Rico

In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through the music community and beyond, Kevin Mares, a passionate fan of Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, was fatally shot in Puerto Rico. The young man, known for his unwavering dedication to the reggaeton icon, met a violent end in what authorities are investigating as a targeted attack. This senseless act of violence not only highlights the dangers lurking in everyday life but also underscores the profound impact that celebrities like Bad Bunny have on their followers, turning fans into extended family members whose losses are felt deeply.

Kevin Mares, 28, was a resident of San Juan, Puerto Rico, where he lived a life deeply intertwined with the rhythms of Bad Bunny's music. Friends and family describe him as a vibrant soul who embodied the spirit of the island's vibrant culture. Mares was no ordinary fan; he had attended multiple concerts, collected memorabilia, and even sported tattoos inspired by Bad Bunny's lyrics and imagery. His social media profiles were filled with posts celebrating the artist's hits like "Tití Me Preguntó" and "Moscow Mule," often sharing how the music helped him navigate personal struggles. "Kevin wasn't just listening to Bad Bunny; he was living it," said a close friend, Maria Gonzalez, in an emotional interview. "His energy was infectious, and this loss feels like a piece of our community is gone."

The shooting occurred late Friday evening in the bustling neighborhood of Santurce, a area known for its lively nightlife and street art scenes. According to eyewitness accounts, Mares was walking home from a local bar where he had been enjoying a night out with friends. Reports indicate that an altercation erupted suddenly, possibly stemming from a dispute over something as trivial as a parking spot or a misunderstood comment. Witnesses heard heated words exchanged before gunfire rang out. Mares was struck multiple times and collapsed on the sidewalk. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The assailant, described as a man in his mid-20s wearing dark clothing, fled on foot and remains at large. Police have released surveillance footage showing a shadowy figure escaping into the night, but no arrests have been made as of yet.

Local authorities are treating the case with urgency, emphasizing that while there's no immediate evidence linking the shooting directly to Mares' fandom, the incident has sparked conversations about safety in Puerto Rico's urban areas. "We are committed to bringing justice to Kevin's family," stated San Juan Police Chief Ramon Diaz in a press conference. "This was a brazen act in a public space, and we urge anyone with information to come forward." Investigators are combing through Mares' recent activities, including his social media, to determine if there were any prior threats or motives. Speculation has arisen online that the dispute might have involved rivalries tied to music fandoms, but officials have dismissed these as unfounded rumors for now.

The news of Mares' death quickly spread across social media platforms, where Bad Bunny's massive fanbase, often referred to as the "Bad Bunny Army," expressed collective grief. Hashtags like #JusticeForKevin and #RIPKevinMares trended worldwide, with fans sharing tributes, fan art, and clips of Mares at concerts. One viral video showed him dancing ecstatically at Bad Bunny's 2023 world tour stop in San Juan, his face lit up with pure joy. "He represented what it means to be a true fan – full of life and love for the music," posted one user on X (formerly Twitter). Celebrities and influencers have also weighed in, with some calling for increased awareness about gun violence in Puerto Rico.

Bad Bunny himself, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has not yet issued a public statement on the matter, but sources close to the artist indicate he is deeply affected. Known for his advocacy on social issues, including violence and mental health in his home island, Bad Bunny has previously used his platform to address such tragedies. In past interviews, he has spoken about the personal toll of fame, noting how fans' stories inspire him. It's possible that this incident could prompt a response from him, perhaps in the form of a tribute song or a charitable gesture toward Mares' family. Fans are hopeful, recalling how he dedicated performances to victims of Hurricane Maria and other local crises.

This tragedy comes at a time when Puerto Rico is grappling with rising crime rates, particularly in urban centers. According to community leaders, incidents like this are symptomatic of broader issues such as economic disparity, access to firearms, and the lingering effects of natural disasters that have strained resources. Mares' death has reignited calls for reform, with vigils planned in San Juan and other cities. His family, devastated by the loss, has set up a memorial fund to support anti-violence initiatives, hoping to turn their pain into positive change. "Kevin loved Bad Bunny because his music spoke of resilience and pride in our culture," said his sister, Elena Mares. "We want his legacy to be one of peace, not more bloodshed."

As the investigation unfolds, the world watches and mourns. Kevin Mares' story is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be, even for those who find solace in the beats of their favorite artist. In the words of Bad Bunny's own lyrics from "Yo Perreo Sola," which Mares often quoted: "I do what I want." Tragically, Mares' freedom to live and love music was cut short, leaving a void in the hearts of many. The hope now is for swift justice and a safer future for all fans who dare to dance to the rhythm of their passions.

The broader implications of this event extend to the celebrity-fan dynamic. Bad Bunny, with over 40 million Instagram followers and a string of chart-topping albums, has built an empire on authenticity and connection. Fans like Mares see him as more than a performer; he's a symbol of Puerto Rican identity and empowerment. This incident prompts reflection on how such connections can amplify grief when tragedy strikes. Music industry experts note that artists often feel a responsibility toward their supporters, and Bad Bunny's history of philanthropy – from donating to education funds to supporting LGBTQ+ rights – suggests he may channel this into action.

Community responses have been overwhelming. Local radio stations in Puerto Rico have dedicated airtime to Bad Bunny's tracks in Mares' honor, while online forums buzz with discussions about fan safety at events. Some are organizing benefit concerts to raise funds for the family, blending mourning with the celebratory spirit Mares embodied. As one organizer put it, "We'll perreo in his memory, because that's what Kevin would have wanted."

In the end, Kevin Mares' life and death encapsulate the highs and lows of fandom in a turbulent world. His story is not just about loss but about the enduring power of music to unite and heal. As Puerto Rico and the global Bad Bunny community come together, there's a collective resolve to ensure that no more fans fall victim to such violence. The investigation continues, and with it, the pursuit of answers that might bring some semblance of closure to a grieving island.

Read the Full tmz.com Article at:
[ https://www.tmz.com/2025/08/10/bad-bunny-fan-kevin-mares-shot-killed-puerto-rico/ ]

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