Influencer’s Brother Shot and Killed in Ensenada Restaurant

ENSENADA, Mexico — Gael Castro Cárdenas, the brother of popular influencer Markitos Toys, was shot and killed Friday afternoon while dining at Villa Marina restaurant in El Sauzal, Ensenada, Baja California.

According to preliminary police reports, Castro, 32 years old, sustained over 15 gunshot wounds to the abdomen and chest. Eyewitnesses say the assailants arrived in a maroon Toyota Corolla, which was later found abandoned meters away on Colinas de Redondo Beach, in the same area.

Emergency personnel received a call about a shooting on the Tijuana-Ensenada highway, near kilometer 104, around 6:10 PM. Upon arrival, police found Castro lying on the ground outside the restaurant with visible blood stains. Paramedics confirmed his death shortly thereafter.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community as authorities begin their investigation into the motive behind the shooting and identify the suspects involved. While details remain unclear, the crime scene has been secured, and the Attorney General’s Office has been notified.

Gail Castro, who also gained fame as a YouTuber known for his varied content, is one of four siblings in the Castro Cárdenas family, which includes his brother, the well-known Markitos Toys. Markitos, whose real name is Marcos Eduardo Castro Cárdenas, has amassed a following for showcasing his luxurious lifestyle, including properties, sports cars, and a chain of restaurants.

However, his public persona has been marred by connections to organized crime, specifically the Sinaloa Cartel faction known as ‘Los Chapitos.’ Controversy surrounding his family has escalated, especially given an incident earlier in January when armed assailants attacked and set fire to his parents’ home in Culiacán, Sinaloa.

As authorities continue their investigation into this tragic event, the community awaits further details regarding the circumstances surrounding Gael Castro’s death. Reports indicate that both police and local leaders are dedicated to ensuring justice is served in this case.

This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.