On January 6, 2014, Venezuela was shaken by the brutal murder of Mónica Spear, Miss Venezuela 2004 and actress, together with her ex -husband Thomas Henry Berry. The couple was hooked by armed thieves on a highway, leaving their 5 -year -old daughter Mayan Berry Spear as the only survivor.
From the queen of beauty to the beloved actress
Born in 1984, Mónica Spear was crowned Miss Venezuela in 2004 and ranked fourth at the Miss Universe 2005. Note for her radiant beauty and talent, she became a leading actress in Latin American television dramas, in particular with Telemundo’s productions.
In 2008, he married British travel entrepreneur Thomas Henry Berry and their daughter Maya was born the following year. Although the couple divorced in 2012, they remained close to their child and had even taken up reconciliation.
The night of the attack
While traveling from Mérida to Caracas during a holiday trip aimed at reconstructing their family ties, their car hit an acute object placed on the road from the criminals. As they were waiting for help, a gang of armed thieves approached each other. In an attempt to protect Maya, Mónica and Thomas they closed themselves inside the car.
The attackers opened fire, killing Mónica with a blow to the head and Thomas with a blow to the chest. Maya was hit in the leg but survived.
The murder shocked Venezuela and raised protests nationally against the growing crime. President Nicolás Maduro has convened an emergency meeting on security. In a few days, the police arrested seven suspicions – some minors – were connected to a local carjacking band. At the end of 2014, five were sentenced, with the head of the family who received a prison sentence of 35 years.
Maya’s life after the tragedy
After losing both parents, Maya was raised by maternal grandparents in Orlando, Florida. Surrounded by love, he was told that his parents were “In heaven that watches over her. “He excelled at school, developed talents in the arts and karate and maintained a profound connection with Venezuela despite the painful memories.
At the age of 11, Maya helped produce the documentary Monica: between paradise and earthtelling the story of his mother. Later he was legally adopted by his aunt and uncle, moving to Mexico City. Now 16, Maya has blossomed in a beautiful young woman with a growing sequel to social media, admired for her strength and resilience.
The story of Mónica Spear remains a clear reminder of the Venezuela security crisis and a testimony of the lasting spirit of love and survival embodied by her daughter.
Sources: K14 news
