David “Big Papi” Ortiz, a beloved sports legend in both the United States and the Dominican Republic, was the target of a shocking and life-threatening attack in 2019. Widely regarded as one of the most iconic figures in Boston sports history, Ortiz’s near-death experience left fans and the public stunned. In this episode, Jason Trimmins narrates the harrowing story of Ortiz’s shooting, the investigation that followed, and the dark criminal web surrounding the incident.
The Attack
Trimmins reports that in June 2019, Ortiz was shot in the back at the Dial Lounge, a nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The incident was initially believed to be a case of mistaken identity, but it soon became clear that Ortiz was the intended target. After undergoing emergency surgery, Ortiz was flown back to Massachusetts for further treatment, and his survival only added to his legend.
The Investigation and Revelations
In response to the attack, Ortiz enlisted a team of private investigators, including a former CIA agent and the former Boston Police Commissioner. Trimmins narrates that their findings revealed that Ortiz was not a victim of mistaken identity, as initially claimed, but rather a target of a calculated attack. The investigation uncovered attempts by the Dominican Republic’s former Attorney General to mislead the probe, leading to a deeper look into the motives behind the shooting.
Cesar Emilio Peralta and the Drug Trafficking Connection
At the heart of the attack was Cesar Emilio Peralta, a notorious drug trafficker who controlled narcotics routes from South America to the United States. Peralta had extensive political connections and was known for his involvement in criminal enterprises, including managing businesses and nightclubs. His high-level protection allowed him to operate with impunity for years. However, his reign came to an end when he was extradited to the U.S. and pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges.
The motive behind the shooting remains a subject of speculation. Jason Trimmins suggests that jealousy could have played a role, as Peralta and Ortiz had briefly lived in the same luxury building. While Ortiz was a beloved figure in the Dominican Republic, Peralta’s status was rooted in crime and power, which might have fueled resentment.
In the aftermath, 11 individuals were initially arrested, with 10 eventually convicted for their roles in the plot. Despite the violence, Trimmins notes that the attack only further endeared Ortiz to the public, increasing his already immense popularity and admiration both in the Dominican Republic and internationally.
The story serves as a stark reminder of the dangerous criminal networks operating within the Dominican Republic and highlights Ortiz’s resilience in the face of a near-fatal ordeal.
