Ecuador Shooting: Influencer Killed After Funeral

A woman named Karen Grunauer Franco, aged 39, was shot dead after leaving the funeral of former Fluminense player Mario Pineida in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, last Saturday (20), reports outlets such as The Sun, Daily Star e The Herald.

She was in the car accompanied by a man when they were intercepted by the criminals’ vehicle, who opened fire in her direction. Karen died at the scene; his companion survived and went to a nearby police station to ask for help.

Karen Grunauer Franco — Photo: Reproduction

Karen, who left behind two children, was buried the next day. Authorities stated that she had no criminal record and are now investigating whether her death had any connection to the murder of Mario Pineida, which occurred on December 17.

According to the Mexican newspaper The HeraldKaren Grunauer Franco was known on social media for creating glamor and lifestyle content, including fashion and makeup trends.

Mario Pineida at Fluminense in 2022 — Photo: Mailson Santana / Fluminense FC
Mario Pineida at Fluminense in 2022 — Photo: Mailson Santana / Fluminense FC

Full-back Mario Pineida — former player for the Ecuadorian national team and Fluminense — was shot dead in Guayaquil last Wednesday (17). He was shot in front of a butcher shop in the Sanales neighborhood; his wife, Guisella Fernández, also died at the scene. According to information obtained by Expressa local newspaper, Karen was friends with Guisella, Pineida’s companion.

He played for Barcelona de Guayaquil and even asked the club for special protection, claiming he was receiving death threats.

Aiko Tanaka

Aiko Tanaka is a combat sports journalist and general sports reporter at Archysport. A former competitive judoka who represented Japan at the Asian Games, Aiko brings firsthand athletic experience to her coverage of judo, martial arts, and Olympic sports. Beyond combat sports, Aiko covers breaking sports news, major international events, and the stories that cut across disciplines — from doping scandals to governance issues to the business side of global sport. She is passionate about elevating the profile of underrepresented sports and athletes.

Leave a Comment