Is La Perla Puerto Rico Dangerous? US Tourist Kevin Mares 'May Have Been Innocent Bystander' During Shooting

In a tragic event that has shocked many, Kevin Mares, a New York tourist, was fatally shot in La Perla, Puerto Rico. What began as a joyful trip to see the famous Bad Bunny concert ended in heartbreak in the early hours of 10 August 2025.

The incident raises serious concerns about safety in this once notorious neighbourhood, while details about the shooting remain limited. Questions about how this happened have left the community searching for answers.

NY Tourist Shot Dead in La Perla, Puerto Rico

According to People, Kevin Mares was caught in a shooting incident sparked by a confrontation near La Perla, a coastal area on the edge of Old San Juan. Homicide Detective Sgt. Arnaldo Ruiz said that a fight broke out between two individuals close to Mares and others present. One person drew a gun and opened fire.

Besides Mares, a brother and sister from the local area were also injured and remain in the hospital. Sgt. Ruiz said the investigation is still in its early phase, and the motive is unclear. The shooter has not yet been found. Mares was hit on his left side and was rushed to Puerto Rico's main public hospital, where he died.

Victim Only Wants to See Bad Bunny Concert

Kevin Mares had travelled with three friends and his girlfriend, Angy Nicole Arguello, to enjoy one of the 30 concert nights by Bad Bunny at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico. Thousands of visitors arrived from various places, all eager to attend these shows.

Police confirmed Mares was an innocent bystander who had wandered away from his hotel into La Perla. The two local people injured were unrelated to the tourist group. San Juan's mayor, Miguel Romero, has said officials are reviewing surveillance footage to gather more clues about the shooting.

Who is Kevin Mares

Kevin Mares (25 years old) grew up in Queens, New York, within a loving family including his parents Hector and Sandra and a younger brother. He worked as a Veterinary Technician at Meadowbrook Animal Hospital and was studying to become a veterinarian at LaGuardia Community College.

Kevin's parents shared that their son was working two part-time jobs when he was not busy with studies. Despite his busy schedule, the tourist still finds ways to do what he loves: cooking and singing karaoke, as per CBS News.

Described by loved ones as kind and adventurous, Kevin had interests in animals, gardening, and cooking. Devoted to his family and friends, his sudden loss has left a deep impact on all who knew him.

Kevin Mares About to Propose

A poignant part of this story reveals Kevin was planning to propose to his girlfriend of six years, Angy Nicole Arguello, in the autumn of 2025.

'Kevin had a bright future ahead, with plans to propose to his girlfriend of six years this fall, and he was always creating memories with those closest to him,' his father said.

The couple, accompanied by two friends, had come for a concert holiday, but Angy stayed at the hotel during the time of the shooting. After Kevin's death, Angy posted on Instagram stories, saying how much he loves Kevin and asking why God has to take him away just like that.

La Perla Puerto Rico: Safe or Still Dangerous?

La Perla is a coastal shantytown with a history marked by crime and drug trafficking. Once the main hub for heroin distribution in Puerto Rico, law enforcement often avoided the area before major federal raids in 2011 improved safety.

Despite progress, isolated violent crimes still occur. Notable incidents include a 2023 stabbing of tourists and a 2024 murder followed by arson against a tourist. The neighbourhood draws tourists now partly because of cultural exposure from artists like Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, but caution remains necessary.

The island as a whole has recorded 277 homicides in 2025, a slight decrease from 325 in the previous year, showing ongoing challenges with violence. Kevin Mares' death highlights the persistent risks in La Perla, despite the cultural revitalisation and increasing tourism.