SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — A tragic night out turned fatal for Kevin Mares, a 25-year-old Queens native, who was fatally shot early Sunday morning in La Perla, a popular yet gritty seaside neighborhood in San Juan. Mares had traveled to Puerto Rico with friends to attend a Bad Bunny concert but instead found himself caught in the crossfire of a violent altercation.

The shooting occurred around 2 a.m. near a local nightspot when a heated argument between a group of individuals escalated to gunfire. Police believe Mares was an innocent bystander, struck by a random bullet while walking nearby.

Kevin’s parents, Sandra and Hector Mares, are devastated by the loss of their only son, who was born and raised in Queens to Mexican immigrant parents. “They were walking, and across the street, some people were arguing and started fighting,” Sandra recalled. “Someone pulled out a gun and started shooting randomly. Kevin was across the street and got shot in the abdomen.” Hector added, “We told him to stay at the hotel, but he was young and wanted to have a good time.”

Before the incident, Kevin had shared joyous moments on social media, posting videos of a beautiful beach view and a lively pool party at their San Juan hotel. His girlfriend, who had been with him on the trip, remained at the hotel during the time of the shooting, while Kevin, her brother, and a friend ventured out — a decision his parents now regret.

Kevin was working as a veterinary technician while pursuing his dream of becoming a veterinarian. He was passionate about animals and cherished his dog, Jessie. His parents described him as a caring and ambitious young man with a bright future ahead. “He had a lot of dreams,” said Hector. “He was about to propose to his girlfriend this fall. He wanted to do something special.”

The shooting also wounded two other victims, a man and a woman in their 40s, who remain hospitalized. Authorities in Puerto Rico have launched an ongoing investigation, and the Mares family hopes for a swift arrest. Meanwhile, Kevin’s body remains in Puerto Rico pending the conclusion of the inquiry, as his family desperately awaits to bring him home to Queens for proper farewell rites.

Surrounded by photos and memories, the Mares family is leaning on their community’s support to navigate this unimaginable grief. “He was a lovely son who cared deeply for family and friends,” Sandra said tearfully. “He has many friends who are going to miss him.”

This senseless act of violence has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew Kevin and underscores the unpredictable dangers that can shadow even joyful celebrations.

Summary:

• Victim: Kevin Mares, 25, from Queens, New York

• Incident: Fatally shot in La Perla, San Juan, Puerto Rico, early August 10, 2025

• Circumstances: Caught in random shooting during a fight near nightspot after attending Bad Bunny concert

• Other victims: Two adults injured, hospitalized

• Investigation: Ongoing, family seeking arrest and repatriation of Kevin’s body

• Personal: Veterinary technician with dreams of becoming a veterinarian, engaged, beloved son