Argentine singer and model Fede Dorcaz was fatally shot in Mexico City on Thursday night, October 9, during what authorities believe was an attempted robbery. The 29-year-old artist was driving home after leaving rehearsals for “Las Estrellas Bailan En Hoy,” the Mexican version of Strictly Come Dancing, when the attack occurred.
Dorcaz was shot in the neck while trying to exit a ring road and died instantly, according to the Mexico City Secretariat of Public Safety. Four suspects fled the scene on two motorcycles, and police are now analyzing video surveillance cameras in the area to identify the perpetrators.
Local reports suggest Dorcaz may have resisted the armed robbery, though officials have not confirmed this detail. The artist was on his way to the residence he shared with his girlfriend, Venezuelan social media star Mariana Avila, who boasts millions of followers on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, Dorcaz had spent part of his childhood in Majorca before moving to Mexico two years ago to pursue his music career. Rolling Stone had hailed him earlier this year as a rising Latin star ready to redefine global Latin pop, describing his rise as meteoric.
Dorcaz began his professional journey as a model before moving into the music industry, where he rose to fame throughout Latin America with standout tracks like Cara Bonita, meaning Pretty Face, and Moka, a collaboration with Avila. His 2024 had been particularly successful, featuring 10 sold-out concerts in Mexico, a critically acclaimed audiovisual project called “Instinto,” six music videos, and appearances at major award shows including Premios Lo Nuestro and Premios Juventud.
The couple had been slated to perform together in the upcoming season of Las Estrellas Bailan En Hoy, scheduled to debut next week. Following his passing, the show’s production team shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing that the HOY family deeply mourned the loss of their dear friend and colleague.
The tribute expressed that Dorcaz and Avila were one of the couples scheduled to appear in the new season. Officials indicated that “Fede leaves a huge void in our team” and that his memory and passion would continue to inspire them forever.
Avila posted an emotional message on social media platform X, expressing that Dorcaz loved Mexico with all his being, just as everyone who knew him loved him. She accompanied her tribute with a video of Dorcaz talking about his life and career in Mexico.
Supporters quickly responded to her post with messages of sympathy and prayer. One commenter lamented that it was disgraceful such awful individuals existed, adding that no one—including Fede—should have to endure something so heartbreaking. Another note directed to Avila wished her serenity and comfort during this challenging period.
Dorcaz’s success extended beyond his recorded music to his live performances, where he had earned a reputation as one of today’s most electrifying Latin music performers. His fully booked tour across Mexico thrilled crowds from Campeche to Mexico City, where enthusiastic fans filled arenas to experience his electrifying performances.
His album “Instinto,” a deeply personal nine-track project recorded in Los Angeles, had captivated audiences throughout the Latin music world. The album weaves heartfelt narratives with captivating melodies, offering a rich portrayal of Dorcaz’s evolution both as a musician and as a person. The project was accompanied by six visually stunning music videos that enhanced the emotional depth of the songs.
Beyond his musical talent, Dorcaz had gained significant media recognition, with interviews in major outlets across Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. He aimed to be more than a musician, striving to prove that anyone could create something remarkable from nothing and motivate others to pursue their dreams.
Police continue their investigation into the shooting, with no arrests made at this time. The suspects remain at large, and authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby cameras as part of their ongoing search for the four individuals who fled on motorcycles.
