On the morning of February 15, 2025, the quiet community was shaken by the tragic loss of 28-year-old Lisalee Escalante Espada, a mother of three, in what police are investigating as a femicide—the third of the year. Lisalee’s untimely death, a senseless act of violence, has left her family, friends, and the entire community devastated as they struggle to come to terms with the heartbreaking tragedy.
Lisalee, a mother to three young children, ages 7, 9, and 11, was known for her warmth, her devotion to her family, and her deep love for her children. Her life was centered around her children and the small moments that make family life meaningful. Her loss has not only affected her immediate family but has sent shockwaves throughout the community that knew her as a vibrant, caring individual.
The incident unfolded early in the morning when Lisalee was riding in the front seat of a Nissan, driven by a friend. The vehicle was heading to a residence in the Jardines de Guamani settlement, where Lisalee had been living with her partner for the past ten months. The purpose of the trip, however, took a tragic turn when a dispute reportedly broke out at the house. According to preliminary reports, the altercation escalated, and the situation turned violent.
In what seemed to be a senseless act of rage, the individual, later identified as 26-year-old Luis David Rodríguez Vázquez, allegedly shot Lisalee, hitting her in the head. This single act of violence would change everything for Lisalee’s family, especially her three children, who are now left to navigate the world without their mother.
After the shooting, Lisalee’s friend, who had been driving the vehicle, rushed her to a nearby hospital in a desperate attempt to save her life. However, despite their efforts, Lisalee was declared dead upon arrival. The hospital staff, shocked by the violence and the tragic loss, alerted the police, who immediately launched an investigation into the incident.
At approximately 6:00 a.m., the Criminal Investigations Corps (CIC) took action and apprehended the suspect, Luis David Rodríguez Vázquez, on San Miguel Street in the Corazón neighborhood. Rodríguez, who had a license to carry firearms, was detained for questioning. Authorities worked quickly to seize the gun used in the crime, though it remains unclear whether it was properly registered or if it played a role in the tragic event.
As the investigation unfolded, prosecutor Bethzylee Correa Velázquez, of the Specialized Unit in Domestic Violence, and agent Joseira Rivera Ortiz, took charge of the case. They vowed to pursue justice for Lisalee, her children, and all those impacted by this devastating crime. The case has ignited conversations about domestic violence, femicide, and the importance of addressing these issues before they escalate into such horrific tragedies.
The police have yet to release further details about the nature of the dispute between Lisalee and her partner or the circumstances leading up to the violence. However, the fact that Lisalee was shot during a domestic dispute and her life taken so violently points to the need for greater attention to domestic violence and the impact it has on women, families, and communities.
Domestic violence is a pervasive problem in many societies, and it affects countless individuals, often with tragic consequences. Lisalee’s case is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers women face when they are caught in abusive or violent relationships. According to experts, domestic violence can often escalate in dangerous ways, and in some cases, it leads to femicide— the murder of a woman because of her gender. The high rates of femicide around the world serve as a grave reminder that more needs to be done to address gender-based violence and protect women from harm.
The fact that Lisalee was a mother makes this loss even more painful. Her children, who are now left without a mother’s love and guidance, must cope with the trauma of losing their mother in such a violent and horrific way. Her death has left a void in their lives, and their future without her is uncertain. It is a tragedy that resonates with many parents, who cannot imagine the pain of losing a child, especially in such a senseless way.
The investigation into Lisalee’s death is ongoing, and authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that justice is served. The family of the victim, along with the broader community, is calling for accountability and justice for Lisalee. They are seeking answers about the motives behind the crime, the circumstances leading up to it, and the steps that can be taken to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
As this case unfolds, it has sparked conversations about domestic violence prevention, the importance of legal protection for women, and the need for social change to address the systemic issues that allow such violence to continue. Many in the community have expressed their support for the victim’s family, offering condolences, prayers, and words of comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
Lisalee’s death has not only affected her immediate family but has also left a lasting impact on the community at large. Her life, though tragically short, was filled with love, warmth, and kindness. She will be remembered as a devoted mother and a strong, compassionate woman who brought light to the lives of those around her. Her children, who are now left without their mother, will carry on her legacy in their hearts, forever cherishing the memories of the mother who loved them so deeply.
The tragic circumstances of Lisalee’s death highlight the urgent need for more support for victims of domestic violence, as well as the importance of prevention programs that can help identify early signs of abusive behavior and intervene before it escalates. It also underscores the need for more accessible resources for women who may be facing violence in their homes, as well as stronger legal measures to protect them from harm.
Lisalee’s death is a painful reminder that violence against women, especially domestic violence, is an issue that cannot be ignored. It is a call to action for individuals, communities, and lawmakers to come together to protect women, prevent violence, and ensure that justice is served for those who are victims of gender-based violence.
As the investigation continues and more details emerge, the community remains united in grief, offering support to Lisalee’s family and seeking justice for her untimely and senseless death.
