Maritza Balladares

Maritza Balladares was a 60-year-old Cuban woman who was tragically murdered by her husband in Getafe, Madrid. Known for her love of singing and dancing, particularly bachata and karaoke, Maritza had a vibrant personality that endeared her to her community. She had emigrated to Spain two years prior to her death, seeking a better life and to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. Despite experiencing previous domestic violence, she had not reported the abuse, reflecting the complexities faced by many victims of gender-based violence.