'Bad Bunny' Faces Credible Death Threat During Historic Puerto Rico Residency

Bad Bunny Faces Credible Death Threat During Historic Puerto Rico Residency

San Juan, Puerto Rico – September 25, 2025

In a shocking revelation, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, was reportedly the target of a credible death threat during his record-breaking residency at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, known locally as “El Choliseo.” The threat, which surfaced online and was deemed serious enough to involve the FBI and other federal authorities, has cast a shadow over what was otherwise a triumphant 31-show run titled No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí: Una Más. The residency, which concluded on September 20, 2025, attracted tens of thousands of fans, including high-profile celebrities, and generated an estimated $713 million in economic impact for Puerto Rico. As the news of the threat reverberates across the globe, questions arise about the possible motives behind it, ranging from political tensions to personal vendettas, and what it means for the artist’s future.

 Who Is Bad Bunny?

Bad Bunny, at 31 years old, is a global icon whose meteoric rise has redefined Latin music and pop culture. Born in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, he first gained attention in 2016 with his breakout single Diles, which showcased his unique blend of reggaeton, Latin trap, and urban music. Since then, he has released six solo studio albums, including YHLQMDLG (2020), El Último Tour Del Mundo (2020), and his latest, Debí Tirar Más Fotos (2025). His music, often infused with social and political commentary, resonates with millions, earning him three Grammy Awards and a massive following, with over 111 million equivalent album sales worldwide.

Beyond music, Bad Bunny has ventured into acting, appearing in films like Happy Gilmore 2 and making waves in professional wrestling with WWE, where he competed at WrestleMania 37 and Backlash in Puerto Rico. His outspoken criticism of social issues, including Puerto Rico’s struggling infrastructure and U.S. policies like ICE raids, has made him a polarizing figure. While adored by fans for his authenticity and cultural pride, his bold stances have also drawn criticism from conservative groups and political adversaries, setting the stage for potential conflicts.

 The Death Threat: What We Know

The threat against Bad Bunny was first reported by Puerto Rican journalist Jay Fonseca, a former Telemundo reporter, who revealed that authorities had detected a “credible death threat” originating from an individual on social media. According to Fonseca, the suspect was allegedly armed, prompting an immediate response from federal agencies, including the FBI and possibly the Secret Service. The threat emerged during Bad Bunny’s residency, which ran from mid-July to September 20, 2025, at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan. While the exact timing of the threat remains unclear, Fonseca noted that security measures at the venue were significantly heightened, with additional screenings, restricted areas, and the presence of undercover agents.

The residency itself was a cultural milestone, drawing international stars like LeBron James, Kylian Mbappé, and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. The final show, a celebratory event broadcast across Puerto Rico and select international markets via Amazon Music, featured a replica of “La Casita,” a symbolic Puerto Rican home from Bad Bunny’s music video for Debí Tirar Más Fotos. Despite the festive atmosphere, the behind-the-scenes security alert underscored the gravity of the situation. Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect was apprehended or if the threat was neutralized, and Bad Bunny’s team has remained silent on the matter, leaving fans and media outlets clamoring for answers.

 Possible Reasons for the Threat

The motives behind the death threat are speculative at this stage, as neither federal nor local authorities have released detailed information about the suspect or their intentions. However, several factors in Bad Bunny’s public life and the broader socio-political context of Puerto Rico and the United States provide potential clues.

 1. Political Activism and Criticism of U.S. Policies

Bad Bunny has never shied away from addressing political issues, particularly those affecting Puerto Rico. His decision to skip U.S. tour dates for his upcoming Debí Tirar Más Fotos world tour, citing fears of ICE raids targeting his fans, sparked significant controversy. In a June 2025 Variety cover story, he described performing in the U.S. as “unnecessary” and expressed concerns about immigration enforcement, stating, “ICE could be outside [my concert].” This stance, coupled with his earlier criticism of U.S. policies post-Hurricane Maria and Puerto Rico’s colonial status, has made him a target for conservative groups who view his comments as anti-American.

The timing of the threat aligns with heightened political tensions in the U.S., particularly around immigration policy under a potential second Trump administration. Bad Bunny’s vocal opposition to policies associated with former President Donald Trump, including his refusal to perform in the U.S., may have provoked individuals or groups who perceive his activism as a challenge to their ideological beliefs. Social media platforms, where the threat originated, are often breeding grounds for polarized rhetoric, and Bad Bunny’s outspokenness could have incited an individual with extreme views.

 2. Cultural and Social Commentary in Music

Bad Bunny’s music frequently tackles themes of Puerto Rican identity, systemic inequality, and resistance to colonialism. Songs like El Apagón and Debí Tirar Más Fotos address Puerto Rico’s struggles with power outages, gentrification, and the lingering effects of Hurricane Maria, which killed thousands and exposed the island’s vulnerable infrastructure. His residency’s finale coincided with the anniversary of Hurricane Maria, and fans waved flags and wore T-shirts commemorating the estimated death toll, a subtle but powerful statement against government neglect.

This unapologetic cultural pride and criticism of systemic issues may have alienated certain groups, particularly those who benefit from or support the status quo in Puerto Rico. For instance, gentrification by wealthy outsiders buying up property on the island has been a contentious issue, and Bad Bunny’s public opposition to it could have made him a target for those with vested interests in maintaining economic disparities.

 3. Personal Vendettas or Obsessed Individuals

The nature of the threat, originating from an allegedly armed individual on social media, suggests the possibility of a personal vendetta or an obsessed fan. Bad Bunny’s massive fame, amplified by his 31-show residency and high-profile appearances, makes him a magnet for both adoration and fixation. Celebrity status often attracts unstable individuals who project personal grievances onto public figures. The fact that the threat was deemed “credible” indicates that authorities believed the suspect had the means or intent to act, raising concerns about whether this was a lone actor or part of a broader scheme.

 4. Connection to Other Incidents

The death threat was not the only security concern during Bad Bunny’s residency. On August 10, 2025, a U.S. tourist attending one of his concerts was fatally shot in La Perla, a seaside neighborhood in San Juan known for its vibrant but sometimes volatile atmosphere. While police have stated that the shooting was not directly linked to the threat against Bad Bunny, the incident heightened security concerns during the residency. Additionally, on September 21, two shootings were reported outside “La Casita” in Humacao, a replica of which was featured in Bad Bunny’s shows. These incidents, though unrelated, suggest a tense environment surrounding the artist’s performances, potentially amplifying the perceived risk of the threat.

 5. Previous Threats and Broader Context

This is not the first time Bad Bunny has been linked to potential violence. In 2024, an Arizona man named Mark Adams Prieto was indicted for planning a mass shooting targeting Bad Bunny’s concerts in Atlanta, with the intent of inciting a “race war.” Although the U.S. Department of Justice did not confirm Bad Bunny as the specific target, the incident highlights the risks faced by high-profile artists, particularly those with strong cultural identities. The 2024 case, combined with the recent threat, underscores the vulnerability of public figures in an era of heightened social and political division.

 6. Professional Wrestling and Public Persona

Bad Bunny’s forays into WWE, including his high-profile matches at WrestleMania 37 and Backlash in Puerto Rico, have expanded his audience but also exposed him to new controversies. His wrestling persona, while celebrated by fans, may have drawn ire from niche communities within the wrestling world or rival fanbases. Additionally, his association with Rimas Sports, an agency he co-founded, has faced legal battles with the Major League Baseball Players Association, which accused the agency of improper practices. While these issues seem unrelated to the threat, they contribute to Bad Bunny’s complex public image, which could attract animosity from various quarters.

 Security Measures and Impact

The credible nature of the threat prompted a robust response from authorities. The FBI and possibly the Secret Service were involved, with security at El Choliseo described as “zealous and stealthy.” Measures included additional screenings, restricted access to certain areas of the venue, and the presence of undercover agents. Despite the heightened alert, Bad Bunny completed all 31 shows without incident, a testament to both his resilience and the effectiveness of the security protocols.

The economic and cultural significance of the residency cannot be overstated. With an estimated $713 million impact, the event drew tens of thousands of visitors to Puerto Rico, boosting tourism and local businesses. However, the threat has raised questions about the safety of large-scale events and the challenges of protecting high-profile artists in an increasingly volatile world.

 Bad Bunny’s Response and Future Plans

As of now, Bad Bunny and his team have not publicly commented on the threat, a decision that aligns with his tendency to let his work speak for itself. His focus remains on his upcoming world tour, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, which begins November 21, 2025, in the Dominican Republic and includes stops in Latin America, Europe, and Australia, but notably excludes the U.S. due to his concerns about ICE raids. The tour is expected to sell over 2.6 million tickets, further cementing his global influence.

The lack of an official statement from Bad Bunny’s camp has fueled speculation, with fans expressing both concern and admiration for his decision to complete the residency under such circumstances. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been abuzz with discussions about the threat, with some users praising his courage and others urging authorities to provide more transparency about the investigation.

 Broader Implications

The death threat against Bad Bunny highlights the growing risks faced by celebrities in the digital age, where social media can amplify both support and hostility. For artists like Bad Bunny, whose work is deeply tied to cultural and political identity, these risks are magnified. The incident also underscores the challenges of ensuring safety at large-scale events, particularly in regions like Puerto Rico, where economic and political tensions are ever-present.

Moreover, the threat raises questions about the intersection of fame, activism, and vulnerability. Bad Bunny’s willingness to address controversial issues has made him a voice for the marginalized, but it has also exposed him to backlash from those who oppose his views. As he prepares for his world tour, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the personal costs of speaking truth to power.

 Conclusion

The credible death threat against Bad Bunny during his Puerto Rico residency is a sobering moment for the artist and his fans. While the specifics of the threat remain shrouded in mystery, its implications are clear: Bad Bunny’s influence, both as a musician and a cultural figure, makes him a target for those who feel threatened by his message. Whether driven by political opposition, personal obsession, or unrelated grievances, the threat underscores the challenges of navigating fame in a polarized world. As Bad Bunny moves forward with his global tour, his resilience and commitment to his art will likely continue to inspire millions, even as authorities work to ensure his safety.

Sources and News Links:

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