In Santiago, Dominican Republic, a tragic incident on September 10 has left five individuals dead following an alleged confrontation with a police patrol. Over two weeks later, the investigation remains sluggish, fueling anxiety and frustration among the victims’ families. The National Police and the Santiago Prosecutor’s Office have yet to release an official report, leaving the public in the dark about the circumstances that led to the fatal exchange of gunfire. Relatives of the deceased have voiced their exasperation over the lack of transparency, urging authorities to provide clarity. ‘We need a clear explanation, not just rumors,’ said one family member, who chose to remain anonymous. Civil society groups and human rights advocates have echoed these demands, calling for a transparent and independent investigation to ensure accountability and prevent impunity. The victims, identified as Edward Bernardo Peña Rodríguez, Carlos Enrique Guzmán Navarro (alias Charly Chasc), José Vladimir Valerio Estévez, Elvis Antonio Martínez Rodríguez, and Julio Alberto Gómez, all succumbed to their injuries at the José María Cabral y Báez Hospital. Vladimir Valerio, a barber, was reportedly serving a client and preparing to go out for a meal when the shooting occurred. His partner, Gabriela, defended his character, stating, ‘He wasn’t a criminal. If they have evidence, let them present it. He was just working hard for his dreams.’ The family is determined to clear Vladimir’s name and seek justice for what they perceive as excessive use of force by the police. Gabriela Mercedes Espinal Estévez, Vladimir’s sister, along with other relatives, has been visiting the site of the shooting daily, holding banners that demand justice and honor their loved ones. Despite the ongoing investigation, both the Santiago Police and the prosecutor’s office have maintained a tight-lipped stance, only confirming that the preliminary phase of the investigation has concluded. An alleged police officer was also injured during the incident, which took place in front of a barbershop on Olímpica Avenue in the La Barranquita sector of Santiago province.
Investigations into the deaths of five people in Santiago are progressing slowly.
