Taíno Community mourns as body of missing community member is found at beach in Dorado

Dorado, Borikén (Puerto Rico) - On Sunday, August 24, 2025, Taíno Community member, Juan Gabriel “Guatú” Negrón Santana, age 31, tragically went missing and lost his life while surfing off the coast of Dorado. His body was found by his younger brother on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at a reef in Kikita Beach. The area was previously inaccessible to rescuers due to the strong surf. He was among the three people who were reported to have perished on Sunday, in separate incidents, during a time of rough seas and intense rip currents reported around the island and attributed to the ongoing effects of Hurricane Erin. Guatu was a respected educator, activist, farmer, defender of Mother Earth and his homeland, as well as a beloved husband and father.

Guatu is survived by his wife, Marlene Gonzalez, and their 3 children. Donations to assist with the funeral expenses are being accepted directly by the family on platforms such as Zelle and Pay Pal via the email migonzalez92@gmail.com. For those who wish to contribute via Venmo, @migonzalez92. Residents of Borikén can also donate via ATH Movil, 929-238-5702. According to the National Weather Service, both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are facing significant weather hazards across the coasts.

Photo credit: Teko Alejo

UCTP Taino News 08/26/2025