The Venezuelan diaspora is united in grief following the tragic killing of Yamerlis Lopez, a young woman originally from La Guaira in Sucre State. The incident occurred on January 21st in Arouca, Trinidad, where Lopez was fatally shot while gathered with others under a garden shed along Garden Road.
Social media platforms have become a virtual memorial as compatriots express their sorrow and solidarity. Numerous tributes describe her death as an ‘irreparable loss,’ with particular concern directed toward her mother Yaneisis and surviving siblings. One heartfelt message pleaded: ‘Father God, strengthen her family members and let the soul of Yamerlis rest in peace.’
Adding to the tragedy, Lopez was seven months pregnant at the time of her death. Preliminary police investigations indicate she was not the intended target but was accidentally struck during an attack apparently directed at her boyfriend. The shooting occurred around 1 pm when an unidentified gunman opened fire on the group, causing others to scatter while Lopez was hit.
Despite being rushed to Arima Hospital, Lopez was pronounced dead upon arrival. Law enforcement agencies including the North Central Division and Homicide Bureau of Investigations (Region Two) have collected evidence from the scene. An autopsy is scheduled at the Forensic Science Centre in St James as authorities continue their search for the suspect, who remains at large.