On January 9, 2024, 55-year-old real estate agent Liliana Concha Pérez was found dead in her Raleigh, North Carolina office. She had suffered gunshot wounds and was discovered alongside her former boyfriend and business partner, Gerardo Obando, who appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities are investigating the incident as a murder-suicide.
Liliana, originally from Medellín, Colombia, had built a successful real estate career in the Raleigh-Durham area, founding her own firm and becoming a mentor and leader in the community. She was known for her passion for helping others, particularly within the Latinx community, assisting many in achieving homeownership and financial independence.
Family members revealed that Liliana and Obando had ended their relationship approximately a year prior to the tragedy. Her brother, Mauricio, mentioned that Liliana had expressed concerns about Obando's possessive and obsessive behavior, though he had not exhibited violence before. This unforeseen act has left the family and community in deep mourning.
In the wake of her passing, vigils were held to honor Liliana's memory, with hundreds attending to pay their respects. Community members described her as a pillar who transformed lives through her work and generosity. Efforts were also made to expedite a humanitarian visa for her mother in Colombia, enabling her to attend the funeral services in Durham.
Liliana leaves behind two adult children and a young grandchild. Her untimely death has prompted discussions about the importance of mental health support and the need for vigilance in addressing signs of obsessive behavior in relationships. The community continues to seek ways to prevent such tragedies and support those affected by domestic violence.
