Former Boston Red Sox star David Ortiz was shot in the back while sitting outside of a bar in the Dominican Republic earlier this month. When prosecutors provided an update on the case, it was reported that Ortiz was targeted in an orchestrated hit with the perpetrators being paid just under $8,000.
However, one of the suspects has a different story.
According to 25-year-old Rolfi Ferreira Cruz, who is the suspected triggerman, Ortiz was not the intended target. In a video that was released in the Dominican Republic, Cruz can be seen behind bars saying “it wasn’t supposed to be David.”
He adds: “Tell them it wasn’t meant for David.”
The video did not mention who was supposed to be the intended target.
The New York Post adds that Cruz is a resident of New Jersey who is on the run for his involvement in two robberies that occurred in the same night. He was recognized by a New Jersey bodega owner when his mugshot was released to the public.
Following the shooting, Ortiz underwent two surgeries. He is in stable condition and is currently recovering in Massachusetts after being transported from the Dominican Republic. During the surgeries, Ortiz had his gallbladder removed and part of his intestines.
Ortiz was a member of three World Series championship teams during his team with the Boston Red Sox and was the 2013 World Series MVP. Ortiz was in his birthplace of Santo Domingo when he was shot.
Throughout his MLB career, Ortiz was a 10-time All-Star, seven-time Silver Slugger Award winner, Roberto Clemente Award winner, two-time AL Hank Aaron Award winner, and the AL home run leader in 2006.
Ortiz’s No. 34 was retired by the Red Sox following his playing career.
We continue to wish Ortiz all of the best in his continued recovery.
