Just hours after the Tuesday court hearing in Miami, Yaliet Caridad Carvajal, El Taiger's eldest daughter, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message that captured the anguish a family feels while still seeking justice.
"Today was another incredibly hard day for me. Seeing the person who took my dad's life smiling while my family and I continue to mourn him broke my heart," the 12-year-old wrote on her account @yaliet_carvajal. She accompanied her post with a photo from her father's wake, captioned "The Sentiment of a Nation."
The catalyst for her post was the appearance of Damián Valdez Galloso in Miami-Dade criminal court, marking his first physical presence in a courtroom since 2024. Reports from the session indicated that the defendant appeared arrogant and was seen smiling and casually chatting with his defense attorney, a scene that sparked discomfort among those present.
Yaliet did not hold back her emotions regarding this image. "Hearing them call this murderer innocent hurts so much because my dad is no longer with us, and we will never get back his hugs, his advice, or all the love he gave us," she added in her post.
She also spoke on behalf of her siblings. "I'm only 12 years old. I don't understand many adult things, but I do know that I miss my dad every day. My siblings Ana, Lucas, Sofia, and I are growing up with an enormous void that no one can fill."
The post concluded with a direct appeal to her followers: "I just ask everyone who reads this message not to forget my dad. I ask you to join us in prayer, share his story, and continue to demand justice."
The post garnered over 6,700 reactions and 449 comments within hours, featuring supportive messages from followers and those close to the artist, including rapper The Yabo, who left a simple "Princess" accompanied by a heart.
Judicial Developments and Family's Determination
On the legal front, the trial against Valdez Galloso—originally scheduled for September 15, 2026—was postponed following the Tuesday hearing. The court indicated that proceedings are expected to take place between February and March 2027, with the prosecution preparing 15 to 20 witnesses and evidence from three police departments. The next status hearing is set for September 2, 2026.
Yaliet concluded her message with a solemn promise to her father: "Dad, we promise never to stop fighting for you. You will forever live in our hearts. We love and miss you every day."
Key Questions About El Taiger's Case
What prompted Yaliet Carvajal to post on Instagram?
Yaliet Carvajal was moved to post on Instagram following the court appearance of the man accused of her father's murder, who was seen smiling and chatting with his attorney.
When is the next court date for Damián Valdez Galloso?
The next status hearing for Damián Valdez Galloso is scheduled for September 2, 2026, with the trial expected to occur between February and March 2027.
How has the public responded to Yaliet's Instagram post?
The public has shown significant support for Yaliet's post, with over 6,700 reactions and numerous comments offering empathy and backing for her family's quest for justice.