Cartagena, Colombia is mourning the loss of a rising star in the urban music scene. Andrés Felipe Manjarrés Álvarez, known professionally as “Felo Millones,” was fatally shot in Cartagena on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The 22-year-old artist, who was beginning to gain recognition in the trap music genre, was attacked while leaving a shopping center in the Olaya Herrera neighborhood, according to reports from local authorities and corroborated by multiple news outlets.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the city’s music community and prompted a police investigation. Details emerging from the investigation, as reported by El Espectador and Noticias Caracol, indicate that two individuals on a motorcycle approached Manjarrés and opened fire. He died at the scene.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Felo Millones was described by those who knew him as a dedicated and ambitious artist on the cusp of a breakthrough. He had recently been working on new projects and had participated in the recording of a music video with other artists, signaling a positive trajectory in his career. According to El Universal, friends and colleagues shared that Millones believed music could transform his life.
“He was focused on his career, constantly working and convinced that music could change his life,” reported El Universal, reflecting sentiments echoed on social media by those who followed his work. His music resonated with a growing audience in Cartagena, and he was known for performing at local nightclubs. The loss of such a young and promising talent has been deeply felt within the city’s artistic circles.
Details of the Investigation and Previous Legal Issues
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, seeking to identify the perpetrators and determine the motive behind the attack. The Sijín, the investigative branch of the Colombian Prosecutor’s Office, has been tasked with collecting evidence and analyzing the crime scene. The body of Felo Millones was transferred to the Legal Medicine Institute for an autopsy, as reported by El Espectador.
Adding another layer to the case, authorities have revealed that Manjarrés Álvarez had a prior judicial record. According to El Espectador, he was implicated in a case involving the illegal possession of a firearm in 2022, recorded in the Oral Criminal Procedure System (SPOA). The significance of this prior incident in relation to his recent death remains under investigation.
Police Response and City Concerns
The Metropolitan Police of Cartagena has responded to the incident with increased security measures in the Olaya Herrera neighborhood and surrounding areas. General Yecid Peña, commander of the Metropolitan Police, stated, as reported by Noticias Caracol, that Millones was riding a motorcycle with companions when they were approached by individuals on another motorcycle who opened fire. The police are actively pursuing leads and working to bring the perpetrators to justice.
This incident comes after a brief period of relative calm in Cartagena, with six days having passed without a reported homicide of this nature. The shooting has reignited concerns about rising violence and insecurity in the city, prompting calls for increased law enforcement presence and preventative measures. The city is grappling with a complex security landscape, and this latest tragedy underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
Tributes and Condolences
The news of Felo Millones’ death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow artists, and community members. Altavida, a local organization, expressed its profound sorrow over the loss of the young artist, recognizing his voice, energy, and authenticity as representing the hopes and dreams of many young people seeking a path through music.
Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of condolence and remembrance, with many sharing his music and expressing their shock and sadness. A wake for Andrés Felipe Manjarrés Álvarez was held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, with his funeral taking place later that day at the Jardines de Cartagena Cemetery, according to El Universal. The procession began at 3:00 PM from his home in the 11 de Noviembre sector of Olaya Herrera.
The Broader Context of Violence in Colombia
The death of Felo Millones is unfortunately not an isolated incident. Colombia continues to grapple with issues of violence and insecurity, particularly in certain regions. While significant progress has been made in recent years, challenges remain in addressing the root causes of crime and ensuring the safety of citizens. The ongoing presence of armed groups and the complexities of the post-conflict landscape contribute to a volatile security situation in some areas.
The investigation into Felo Millones’ murder is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine whether the shooting was related to his music career, personal disputes, or other factors. The case highlights the vulnerability of young artists and the need for greater protection and support for those pursuing their dreams in challenging environments.
As of February 21, 2026, no arrests have been made in connection with the murder of Felo Millones. The investigation remains a top priority for the Cartagena Metropolitan Police, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The city awaits further developments in the case, hoping for justice for the young artist and a renewed commitment to addressing the underlying issues that contribute to violence in the region.
The loss of Andrés Felipe Manjarrés Álvarez, Felo Millones, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for young people to pursue their passions. His music will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate with audiences for years to come.
We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Please share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.