Family of Yolanda Handal demand justice one year after her death

Family members, neighbors, and friends of Yolanda Handal gathered outside the National District Court of Appeals to demand justice one year after her murder. They are pushing for the judicial process to continue to a full trial.

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We are confident that the judges will make a favorable decision. All we ask is that a full trial can finally be held, not as it was conducted in a preliminary hearing.

The vigil was organized to show solidarity with Handal's family and support their pursuit of justice in the case involving Jean Andrés Pumarol. Pumarol is accused of the attack on July 23, 2025, in the Naco Dorado IV condominium, which also left several others injured, including his father.

Caroline Taveras, Handal's daughter, stated that the court would announce its decision on an appeal filed by the family on August 6. The appeal was lodged after the case did not advance to a full trial. "We are confident that the judges will make a favorable decision. All we ask is that a full trial can finally be held, not as it was conducted in a preliminary hearing," she said.

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Why does justice exist for some and not for others?

Taveras questioned the disparity in the justice system, noting that many individuals with mental health conditions are serving sentences. "Why does justice exist for some and not for others?" she asked. The family emphasized they are not seeking a specific outcome but rather the guarantee of due process. "May justice follow due process, and if due process warrants his conviction, then let him be convicted. We simply want justice and due process," she affirmed.

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May justice follow due process, and if due process warrants his conviction, then let him be convicted. We simply want justice and due process.