Valentina Gilabert, the 18-year-old model and influencer, was violently attacked by fellow influencer Marianne Gonzaga on February 4, 2025, during what began as a tragic confrontation over personal relationships.
According to reports, Marianne stabbed Valentina roughly 13 to 14 times, leaving her critically injured and currently hospitalized at Médica Sur. The attack, which took place at an apartment complex in the Álvaro Obregón area of Mexico City, reportedly stemmed from Marianne's emotional turmoil after discovering Valentina with her ex-boyfriend, the father of her infant child.
Ernesto Gilabert, Valentina's father, shared devastating details of the incident during the radio program of journalist Maxine Woodside. "Valentina received from 13 to 14 stab wounds; two were to the left lung, another to the right, and there were additional wounds to her neck, face, and hands," he explained, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Initially, Valentina’s health was grave, requiring immediate surgery to address significant internal bleeding and potential loss of mobility. Her father recounted, "She had internal bleeding; they put a catheter in her heart to relieve the blood and pressure. Three medical specialists attended to her overnight, and she underwent surgeries for about four hours due to the severe injuries."
At the time of the attack, it was reported Marianne entered the apartment after encountering Valentina with her ex. "She entered the apartment, started to argue with Valentina, and then began stabbing her," Ernesto tearfully recounted, reflecting the chaos of the evening and the victim's tragic plight.
After the attack, Valentina was rushed to the hospital where she remains unconscious and intubated, surrounded by her concerned family. Maureen Papoon, her mother, provided updates on social media, stating, "Her life is still at risk; she is intubated and in induced coma. We do not yet know what might happen to Valentina."
The incident has sparked outrage and concern among the community and fellow influencers alike. Police quickly apprehended Marianne Gonzaga the following day, presenting her before the Youth Justice Prosecutor’s Office where she faces charges related to the violent offenses against Valentina. Although only 17 years old, the seriousness of the attacks has led authorities to initiate homicide investigations.
The broader questions of domestic violence and the impacts of social media fame on young influencers have emerged as key themes among the public discussions surrounding this brutal event. Reportedly, there were no immediate threats exchanged between the women prior to the incident; rather, there was a sudden escalation following Marianne's emotional state upon finding Valentina with her ex.
Ernesto noted the complicated emotional backdrop, stating, "They had broken up five months earlier, shortly after she gave birth, but the emotional scars ran deep, leading to this tragic confrontation."
Valentina remains under close watch, and her family has urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation concerning her condition— "The news of Valentina's death has been fabricated. She is still alive and fighting for her life, currently undergoing treatment," stated one of her cousins on social media.
The families have also turned to social media, calling for blood donations and expressing gratitude for the support of the community during this horrifying time. The situation remains dynamic, as the medical team continues to assess Valentina's health and community members rally behind her recovery.
Marianne's legal representation awaits developments as the investigation continues, leaving many to ponder the repercussions of this shocking act of violence and its lasting impact on both families involved.