Regina Vidal, a 22-year-old woman from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was shot and killed in the early hours of January 27, 2024. The incident occurred at the Newport Condos in Lauderhill, located at 2029 NW 46th Avenue. According to Lauderhill police, Vidal was with a group of friends in an apartment when Hugo Lazo, 24, who was dancing with a gun in his hand, accidentally discharged the firearm, striking and killing Vidal.
Lazo fled the scene before police arrived.
However, he was later taken into custody by U.S. Marshals and charged with manslaughter. As of the latest reports, Lazo is being held without bond at the Broward County jail.
The incident has left Vidal's family and friends in deep grief. Her mother, Rae Marie Vidal, expressed her sorrow and skepticism about the circumstances of her daughter's death. Rae Marie Vidal believes there may be more to the story than what has been disclosed and has called for those present during the shooting to be held accountable for their actions. She emphasized the need for truth and accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Regina Vidal was remembered as a loving, caring, energetic, and spontaneous person. She had recently celebrated her 22nd birthday on December 17, 2023, and was active in the South Florida Women’s Soccer League, playing for the Renegades team. Vidal graduated from Fort Lauderdale High School and shared a strong bond with her mother, particularly through their mutual love of soccer.
The community has shown support for Vidal's family through various tributes, including a memorial at the Newport Condos and a walk for justice held in her honor. A GoFundMe page was also created to help with funeral expenses.
Regina Vidal's death is particularly poignant for her mother, who had previously lost another daughter to suicide in 2020. Rae Marie Vidal has urged people to be kind and to appreciate their loved ones, highlighting the cruelty and unpredictability of the world.
