Fuengirola, Spain – The bodybuilding world and the Spanish community are mourning the tragic death of Zunilda Hoyos Méndez, the internationally renowned Colombian bodybuilder, affectionately known as the “Hulk Woman.” The 43-year-old athlete was found brutally murdered in her exclusive residence in the Higueron West urbanization in Fuengirola, Spain. Investigations point to a femicide that has deeply shocked the sports community.
Suspected Femicide: Husband Under Investigation
The National Police have launched an investigation, treating the case as a severe crime of gender-based violence. The prime suspect is Jarrod Gelling, Zunilda Hoyos’ 46-year-old Colombian-American husband. His body was also discovered in the apartment’s bathroom, with injuries consistent with suicide. The horrific discovery was made after Zunilda’s gym partner raised the alarm, having not seen her since June 14.
History of Domestic Violence and Planned Divorce
Close sources report that the bodybuilder intended to divorce her husband. Their marriage is said to have been marked by aggressive behavior from her partner over several years. Although there had been no official complaints or reports in Spain, Zunilda Hoyos’ family had expressed concerns about a history of domestic violence. It is believed that Hoyos planned to return to Colombia alone after an upcoming competition in Portugal to initiate divorce proceedings and start a new chapter.
Zunilda Hoyos Méndez: A Celebrated Athlete and Personality
Zunilda Hoyos Méndez was a highly decorated athlete, achieving second place at the prestigious NPC Worldwide Latin American Championships in 2021. With an impressive international career, she was a prominent figure not only on stage but also on social media, where she amassed thousands of enthusiastic followers. Her tragic passing leaves a deep void in the bodybuilding community.
Her coach, Branden Rey, expressed his grief with heartfelt words: “You could have been in the top 10 in the world this year.” Friends and colleagues remember Zunilda as a strong, passionate woman with a noble heart, whose untimely end is considered both unjust and tragic. The news of her death has caused dismay and sorrow throughout the sports world.
