Investigation Finds David Ortiz Was Targeted By Drug Kingpin During 2019 Shooting
Two years ago, former Red Sox player David Ortiz was shot in the back at close range while in his native Dominican Republic. Now, investigators have released information stating that the baseball great was targeted by drug kingpin César “The Abuser” Peralta during the June 2019 shooting that sent Ortiz to the hospital for almost 50 days, according to a private investigation bankrolled by Ortiz and conducted by former Boston police commissioner Ed Davis .
Investigators originally believed the incident was a random act of violence, however the Boston Globe reports that according to Davis, information gathered by U.S. law enforcement officials claim this was an intentional hit on Ortiz.
"Peralta said he had David shot," Davis said.
Ortiz denies having more than a casual relationship with Peralta, according to the Globe’s report, though Peralta’s attorney, Joaquin Perez, said the two men are “close friends.” Peralta is said to have been jealous of Ortiz and felt disrespected by him leading to wanting him dead.
Davis’ findings reveal that Ortiz, during a phone call from the Dominican Republic, said he was "sad, confused, angry, all kinds of emotions" when he received the news. Ric Prado, a former high-ranking CIA official, also participated in the inquiry. Interestingly enough, Dominican authorities did not cooperate with the private investigation and yet 13 people have been charged in relation to the shooting and are still awaiting trial there.
Peralta has not been charged with the shooting and is currently being held without bail in Puerto Rico on unrelated charges of conspiracy to import cocaine and heroin.
Ortiz, who helped the Red Sox win the World Series three times, hit 541 home runs during his 20-year career in the MLB. He was a 10-time All-Star and World Series MVP in 2013. He retired after the 2016 season and was nominated earlier this year for the National Baseball Association Hall of Fame.
Ortiz told the Boston Globe he is still confused why anyone would want him dead, but "the most important thing is, thank God I'm alive."
