A 35 year old woman was shot and killed in her home in Burunga, Arraiján, early Saturday morning. The incident, which police are investigating as the first femicide of the year in Panama West Province, also left the alleged perpetrator dead from a self inflicted gunshot wound.
Authorities identified the victim as Katherine Hernández, a Dominican national and local business owner. The suspect was named as 45 year old Alexander Santamaría, a heavy equipment operator originally from Tolé, Chiriquí. The couple’s three year old daughter and Hernández’s 17 year old daughter from a previous relationship are now orphaned.
Violent Altercation Follows Night Out
According to a police source familiar with the investigation, Santamaría arrived at the family home around 9:00 p.m. on Friday. He spent time playing with his young daughter before leaving around midnight to drink with friends. Hernández, who owned a small eatery in Burunga, was preparing for work around 5:00 a.m. Saturday when her partner returned.
The source stated Santamaría was intoxicated and immediately accused Hernández of infidelity. A heated argument erupted after he demanded to check her cell phone. The confrontation turned deadly when Santamaría produced a firearm.
When officers arrived they found the couple with gunshot wounds in the living room of the house. [Translated from Spanish]
Commissioner Carlos Ortiz, the acting head of the local police zone, provided that account of the scene. A separate judicial source confirmed Hernández suffered eight gunshot wounds, with one to the abdomen and the others to her face. Santamaría died from a single gunshot to the head.
Dominican Community Mourns a Tragic Loss
The Dominican community in Panama West Province issued a formal statement expressing profound grief and solidarity. The organization highlighted the far reaching impact of the crime, extending beyond the immediate family.
This lamentable event has left two minors orphaned, generating deep consternation not only among their direct relatives but also throughout the entire Dominican community residing in this province. [Translated from Spanish]
Community leaders added they have been coordinating with funeral home officials since learning of the tragedy. They are also maintaining constant communication with Hernández’s mother, who lives in the Dominican Republic.
This killing follows a similar pattern of intimate partner violence in the region. Another woman was murdered by her partner in the Playita de Bique area of Arraiján on December 8, 2025. Santamaría’s job required frequent travel for heavy cargo operations across Central America, meaning he spent very little time at home according to neighbors.
Panamanian authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances leading to the shooting. The case has reignited conversations about gender based violence and protective resources in Panama West Province. No further official details about funeral arrangements or the custody of the children have been released at this time.