Evidence in case of teen’s slaying delivered to Prosecutor’s Office

Gabriela Nicole Pratts Rosario (Social media)

By The Star Staff

The island Justice Department expressed its unwavering commitment on Thursday to ensuring that all those accountable for the tragic slaying of 16-year-old Gabriela Nicole Pratts Rosario are brought to justice.

“We have received confirmation that the Puerto Rico Police have transferred all relevant evidence to the Prosecutor’s Office,” Justice Secretary Lourdes Gómez Torres said. “This heartbreaking incident unfolded early last Monday in Aibonito.”

The teenager tragically lost her life early Monday morning after being stabbed eight times during an altercation that occurred after she attended an end-of-the-summer event on the Roberto Colón detour, at the intersection with Highway PR-14, in Aibonito.

There are six suspects in the case, including minors.

“I want to speak directly to Gabriela’s family, friends, and the people of Puerto Rico: we are dedicating every effort to ensuring that those responsible for this heinous act are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Gómez Torres said. “Every action carries consequences, and it is imperative that everyone involved is held accountable.”

The case is in the hands of prosecutor Brenda Lee Soto Santiago, in whom the justice secretary expressed her full support.

“Within the realm of law, especially in criminal cases, it is crucial to act responsibly and present robust cases with evidence that meets the highest standards,” Gómez Torres emphasized. “Our police and Prosecutor’s Office have been tirelessly working since the outset to solve this case and deliver justice. I am confident that we will succeed.”

The island’s top attorney also affirmed her ongoing communication with Institute of Forensic Sciences Director María Conte Miller, highlighting their collaborative efforts to address every aspect of the case with the urgency it deserves.

Meanwhile, Family Secretary Suzanne Roig Fuertes stated Thursday that the agency has not taken custody of any minors related to the death of Pratts Rosario, contrary to media reports.

”However, from the outset, we have activated the corresponding protocols to investigate and handle the case with the diligence and sensitivity that these situations warrant,” Roig Fuertes said in a written statement.

The official specified that the current intervention consists of a protective action plan with two families linked to the case. The plan contemplates investigating and providing support “in various ways” without implying a transfer of custody, she said.

“Both families agreed to accept this assistance and are collaborating to ensure everyone’s well-being, given the current situation,” Roig Fuertes stated.

“This protective action plan does not mean assuming custody of any minor,” she added.