Pregnant Woman Shot in Violent Assault; Baby Born Prematurely
Maria José Murillo Castillo and newborn Luhan Gabriel recover after life-threatening incident.
On June 15, 2025, it was reported that Maria José Murillo Castillo, who was seven months pregnant at the time, was a victim of a violent robbery in Batán de Matina, Limón, Costa Rica.
While working at a shoe store, she was confronted by assailants on a motorcycle.
When she was unable to provide them with valuables, one of the robbers shot her in the abdomen, showing disregard for her condition.
The chilling event occurred on May 18, 2024, at approximately 9 a.m. As a result of the gunshot, Maria José underwent an emergency operation that successfully delivered her child, Luhan Gabriel, who initially faced severe health challenges.
In the immediate aftermath, both mother and child were hospitalized; Maria José was treated for an infection, while Luhan Gabriel was monitored for low birth weight due to placental detachment caused by the bullet's impact.
Elena Castillo, Maria José's mother and Luhan’s grandmother, expressed relief over their recovery, highlighting the contrast between Luhan's fragile state at birth and his current health.
"There is such a difference from how he was born; he was so thin, just bones.
We were given little hope at first, so I prayed for him to fight for us," she recalled.
Despite the progress, both Maria José and Luhan continue to deal with the repercussions of that traumatic day.
Maria José, still on medical leave and receiving psychological support for the trauma, has undergone two surgeries, with the latest in 2025 aimed at reconstructive work following her injuries.
She aspires to return to work in physical education, a career she pursued before the incident.
The traumatic experience has left lasting scars; Maria José often avoids discussions about the assault and frequents therapy sessions to cope with her fears.
On May 18, 2025, Luhan celebrated his first birthday, marking a year of resilience and familial support surrounded by joy from close relatives.
The attackers remain unidentified and at large, prompting ongoing investigations.
Security footage from the robbery captured images of the suspects; however, their faces were obscured by motorcycle helmets.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspects to contact the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ).
This incident has drawn considerable public attention and concern regarding violence against pregnant women and the safety of women in their communities.
While working at a shoe store, she was confronted by assailants on a motorcycle.
When she was unable to provide them with valuables, one of the robbers shot her in the abdomen, showing disregard for her condition.
The chilling event occurred on May 18, 2024, at approximately 9 a.m. As a result of the gunshot, Maria José underwent an emergency operation that successfully delivered her child, Luhan Gabriel, who initially faced severe health challenges.
In the immediate aftermath, both mother and child were hospitalized; Maria José was treated for an infection, while Luhan Gabriel was monitored for low birth weight due to placental detachment caused by the bullet's impact.
Elena Castillo, Maria José's mother and Luhan’s grandmother, expressed relief over their recovery, highlighting the contrast between Luhan's fragile state at birth and his current health.
"There is such a difference from how he was born; he was so thin, just bones.
We were given little hope at first, so I prayed for him to fight for us," she recalled.
Despite the progress, both Maria José and Luhan continue to deal with the repercussions of that traumatic day.
Maria José, still on medical leave and receiving psychological support for the trauma, has undergone two surgeries, with the latest in 2025 aimed at reconstructive work following her injuries.
She aspires to return to work in physical education, a career she pursued before the incident.
The traumatic experience has left lasting scars; Maria José often avoids discussions about the assault and frequents therapy sessions to cope with her fears.
On May 18, 2025, Luhan celebrated his first birthday, marking a year of resilience and familial support surrounded by joy from close relatives.
The attackers remain unidentified and at large, prompting ongoing investigations.
Security footage from the robbery captured images of the suspects; however, their faces were obscured by motorcycle helmets.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspects to contact the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ).
This incident has drawn considerable public attention and concern regarding violence against pregnant women and the safety of women in their communities.