On Wednesday, family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their respects to Geiner Zamora, the deputy chief of the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) in Guápiles, who passed away at the age of 38 after a five-day battle for his life.

Zamora was shot in an apparent targeted attack linked to a criminal organization he was investigating while on duty.

The funeral service took place at the Ciudad para las Naciones church in the Toro Amarillo neighborhood of Guápiles.

The service commenced at 8 a.m. and featured tributes from loved ones, including Zamora's brother-in-law, who discussed the family's pride in Geiner's commitment to his role in law enforcement.

He remarked, "Some say with a pessimistic voice that unfortunately Geiner will not return, but in reality, he is now serving in a bigger and more beautiful office.

I am informed that he is currently on watch and can see us from where he is, and there is nothing to worry about.

He is doing well."

The brother-in-law reflected on the emotional challenges of the occasion while expressing gratitude for Zamora's dedication to his country and the institution he served.

Zamora’s wife, Susana Lazo, who is also employed in the judicial sector, expressed hope that her husband's tragic death would serve as a catalyst for change, reinforcing the need for greater resources and support for law enforcement.

"This should be the seed that will grow into something that allows all of my colleagues to have better tools in the fight against crime, which was Geiner's main priority," Lazo stated.

Lazo also highlighted her husband's passion for his work and urged his peers not to be disheartened in the face of violence, championing the ideals of justice and perseverance.

"They did not kill a criminal; they killed someone who believed that justice must prevail.

Please do not give up and continue forward, without fear," she implored.

In her address, Lazo made an appeal to policymakers, calling for significant changes to reduce violence in the country.

She requested that her husband's death not be in vain and urged communities to find solace and strength during times of adversity.

Jorge Cubillo, a neighbor and family acquaintance, characterized Zamora as a common person doing his job, and lamented the pervasive violence that has affected Costa Rica.

"You can’t believe how violence has reached such levels.

It’s unfair, as he was just a normal person with a family, trying to make a living.

No words can describe this loss; it is incomprehensible," he said.

Pastor Isaí Chají, who officiated the service, emphasized the community's grief and the need for reflection in the face of growing violence in the nation.

He labeled the situation both lamentable and indignant and urged collective efforts to honor Zamora's legacy.

Chají called for essential reforms, stating that true change must begin within families and communities.

He stressed the importance of education as a tool for societal transformation, particularly for the younger generations facing adversity.

As the community mourns the tragic loss of Geiner Zamora, discussions surrounding violence, justice, and the need for structural change in Costa Rica continue to gain momentum.