Veterinarian shot dead in San Ignacio de Velasco, Bolivia

A 40‑year‑old veterinarian and restaurant owner was killed by gunfire on 2 August 2026 in San Ignacio de Velasco, Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The victim was identified as Luis Denar Parada Saavedra (also reported as Dagner P.). Two men arrived on a motorcycle, opened fire on the victim at the corner of Bolívar and Chiquitos streets, and fled. Police sealed the scene, conducted forensic examinations and began collecting evidence.

Authorities are investigating possible links to organized‑crime groups, including Brazil’s Primeiro Comando Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho, after reports that the victim had received threats months earlier and may have been on a list of potential targets. The killing has heightened community concerns amid a recent rise in violent deaths in the Santa Cruz region.