The city was left reeling on Monday evening after the tragic death of 20-year-old Mariana Gómez,
who was fatally struck by a stray bullet during a violent shooting on Fifth Street.
What began as an ordinary evening in a bustling commercial district quickly
descended into chaos as gunmen opened fire, leaving two people dead—including an
innocent bystander whose life was cut short just as she was beginning her adult journey.
According to preliminary police reports, the events unfolded around 5:30 p.m. in the heart of
a busy neighborhood filled with shops and pedestrians.
Mariana was walking along the street, reportedly on her way to submit a résumé in hopes of securing employment,
when gunfire erupted. Witnesses said a group of armed men targeted a local merchant in what appeared to be a deliberate attack.
Within seconds, the sound of gunshots sent panic through the area.
Shoppers and residents scrambled for cover, but Mariana was caught in the crossfire.
A bullet struck her in the abdomen as she attempted to shield herself.