Leonel Fernández denounces police killing of 18‑year‑old in Santo Domingo’s Herrera district

Former president and Fuerza del Pueblo leader Leonel Fernández said the death of 18‑year‑old Darlin Mercado Reyes, shot by a National Police officer in the Herrera sector of Santo Domingo Oeste, represents an "incredible" regression for the Dominican Republic. After reviewing video of the incident, Fernández noted that the young man complied with police requests, handed over his identification, and was shot when he resisted detention, describing the action as unjustified and beyond a simple traffic violation.

Fernández also clarified his historical involvement with Fuerza del Pueblo, stating he has been part of the party since its inception in Santiago in 2019 and correcting earlier reports of his absence. He used the occasion to highlight the importance of youth within the party and its strategy ahead of the 2028 elections.