Preliminary hearing in Aibonito teen’s death is slated for today

Evia Cabrera Rivera, 40, and her 17-year-old daughter, Anthonieshka Avilés Cabrera, are accused of stabbing death of 16-year-old Gabriela Nicole Pratts Rosario in Aibonito.

By The Star Staff

The preliminary hearing for Elvia Cabrera Rivera, 40, and her 17-year-old daughter, Anthonieshka Avilés Cabrera, accused of the shocking stabbing death of 16-year-old Gabriela Nicole Pratts Rosario in Aibonito on August 11, is scheduled to unfold today.

This gripping case, poised to captivate audiences on television and social media, may face delays as the newly appointed lawyers for the accused may seek more time to prepare their defenses.

In Puerto Rico, the preliminary hearing serves as a critical juncture in the criminal process for those facing felony charges. It’s a critical moment where the prosecution must present enough evidence to determine whether the case should proceed to trial—not a full trial itself.

Last week, during a status hearing before Judge Marielem Padilla, it was confirmed that Jesús Roberto Ramos Puca will defend Cabrera Rivera. Avilés Cabrera will be represented by lawyers from the Puerto Rico Legal Aid Society (SALPR).

As the hearing is set to be broadcast live, witnesses have expressed deep concerns for their safety and have requested the court to protect their identities. On August 20, the Supreme Court authorized the transmission of the proceedings following an appeal by Jagual Media, LLC and Jay Fonseca.

Both women face serious charges: first-degree murder and violations of the Weapons Law, with bail set at a staggering $1 million each. In a shocking twist, the minor, Avilés Cabrera, will be tried as an adult, meaning both defendants could face up to 99 years in prison if convicted.

Aibonito Prosecutor Ernesto Quesada confirmed that a police officer will testify in the investigation, bolstering the case against the defendants. Initially, six suspects were identified—four minors and two adults—with the victim’s mother, Lisandra Rosario, stepping forward as the key witness to these tragic events.

Prosecutor Quesada has emphasized that this was not a spontaneous fight, but a premeditated act stemming from a broader dispute—a chilling perspective on what led to such a horrific crime. While the initial reports pointed to multiple suspects, only Elvia and Anthonieshka have been arrested, leaving many questions unanswered.

The incident shook the community to its core, occurring in the early hours of August 11 near the Roberto Colón intersection on the PR-14 highway. Adding to the heartbreak, both the victim and the defendants were classmates at Bonifacio Sánchez Jiménez High School, marking a tragic end to youthful ties in a community grappling with the consequences of violence.