The community of Mata de Palma is experiencing moments of great sadness after it was confirmed that 16-year-old Maite Evangelina Jerónimo de la Cruz passed away in circumstances related to her romantic relationship with 26-year-old Henry Rafael Torres. The case has caused consternation throughout the province and has raised numerous questions among family members and neighbors.
According to testimonies, Maite met Torres when she was just 14 years old, beginning a relationship described as marked by jealousy and control. The young woman's family claims that, although she had expressed her intention to end the relationship, she continued to see him secretly, trapped between emotional dependence and fear.
Last Saturday, the teenager left her home with the intention of reuniting with her partner. Hours later, she was found dead, according to the National Police, which is continuing an investigation to clarify the circumstances of the incident and determine responsibility.
Her aunt, Elmita de la Cruz, said that Maite had already confessed her desire to end the relationship due to the abuse, but that she still agreed to secret meetings. “She said she wanted to leave him, but she was still seeing him. I told her, ‘Leave him alone. Are you going to wait for me to break up with you?’” she said, sadly.
Relatives also reported that Henry Rafael Torres had left their neighborhood after being previously charged in another case of child abuse. A friend of the young man even confessed that he admitted to her in a phone call that he had caused Maite's loss. A friend of the teenager tried to reach him on his cell phone and heard Torres's voice, but he answered evasively.
Maite's departure has impacted the community, which remembers her as a student with plans and dreams. She was in her third year of high school and dreamed of becoming a nurse, a goal that represented her desire to serve others and build a better future.
Neighbors and relatives have expressed their sorrow, emphasizing that this tragic outcome highlights the risks young people face in unequal relationships, where control and emotional dependence ultimately determine the course.
The National Police continue to gather information, and the search for Henry Rafael Torres remains active. Meanwhile, the family is receiving outpourings of support and solidarity from the community, which awaits justice and a full clarification of the case.
