The case of 18-year-old Valentina Gilabert, who is currently fighting for her life after being brutally attacked by influencer Marianne Gonzaga, has captured the attention of the public and raised discussions about youth violence and accountability.
The violent incident took place on February 5, 2025, at the Park Pedregal condominium complex, located south of Mexico City. Reports indicate Gonzaga stabbed Gilabert between 13 to 15 times with significant wounds, including two punctures to the lungs and multiple injuries to her arms and neck. The severity of Valentina's injuries has left her intubated and unconscious, with doctors expressing fears about the potential loss of mobility in her hand due to the stabbing.
Gilabert is the granddaughter of beloved actress Iliana de la Garza, who recently passed away, and the daughter of Ernesto Gilabert, who has worked as a photographer for prominent figures, including Luis Miguel. Amidst the tragic events, social media has been flooded with calls for justice on behalf of Valentina. Her father's poignant remarks on the show Todo Para La Mujer highlighted the gravity of the tragedy, stating, "Lo más riesgoso es que iba a perder la mano, seguramente en el sentido de no poder moverla porque le cortaron todos los tendones, estaba muy dañada." This serves as more than just medical testimony; it reflects the emotional toll taken on the family as they navigate this crisis.
Marianne Gonzaga, who is only 17 years old, was apprehended immediately following the attack by agents from the Secretaría de Seguridad Ciudadana. While she initially faced charges of "lesiones dolosas" (intentional injuries), there are discussions about elevifying the charges to attempted homicide or even attempted femicide due to the viciousness of the attack. Sugey Ábrego hinted at legal complications for Gonzaga, asserting, "La 'influencer' va a ser acusada por intento de homicidio sino es que más […] lo quieren reclasificar a intento de feminicidio." These potential charges reflect the growing concerns about accountability when young individuals commit violent acts.
Family members have been vocal about their outrage at the idea of Gonzaga being released due to her age. Armando de la Garza, Valentina's uncle, articulated their stance vehemently on social media, emphasizing, "No puede salir libre una mujer que le metió catorce puñaladas a una niña menor de edad por decir que tiene derecho por ser menor de edad." His words speak to the mounting frustration surrounding legal loopholes often exploited by minors accused of serious crimes, indicating societal discontent with perceived leniency toward violent offenses committed by youths.
Beyond the immediate impacts of the incident, Valentina's case has sparked discussions about friendship and rivalry, particularly since Valentina purportedly began dating Marianne's ex-boyfriend just weeks before the attack. While sources claim they were at one point friends, it's unclear to what extent personal dynamics fueled Gonzaga's aggression. The backstory adds layers to the narrative of jealousy, betrayal, and tragic outcomes, as relationships intertwine with the lives of these young women.
Following the attack, the demand for blood donations for Valentina has grown, as her family battles not only against her physical injuries but the emotional stress stemming from such unexpected violence. Community and public figures alike have begun advocating for reforms to youth crime legislation, illustrating the dire need for constructive dialogues on preventing such tragedies from happening again.
Currently, Valentina remains hospitalized, with family and friends anxiously awaiting news of her recovery. The legal proceedings against Marianne Gonzaga are still forthcoming, and many are eager to see how the justice system will handle this sensitive yet severe case. The outcome may not only decide the fate of Gonzaga but also signal how society chooses to confront violence among minors.
Valentina's struggle is emblematic of larger societal issues, including relationships and youth violence, making this case one to pay attention to as it develops.