Aileen Martinez Murder-Suicide: Key Points in Tragic Shooting at Aveda Institute South Florida
Aileen Martinez, 20, was fatally shot in a domestic-related murder-suicide at the Aveda Institute South Florida on January 27, 2026. Police detail the timeline, family statements, and community response.
The fatal shooting of Aileen Martinez, a 20-year-old cosmetology student, has left the Davie, Florida community reeling. Martinez was killed in a domestic-related murder-suicide involving her ex-boyfriend on January 27, 2026, in the parking lot of the Aveda Institute South Florida. Authorities say the incident appears isolated, but allegations of prior stalking have raised renewed concerns about domestic violence and relationship-related threats.
What Happened to Aileen Martinez
Just after 2 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Davie Police responded to multiple frantic 911 calls reporting gunshots in the parking lot of the Aveda Institute, located near University Drive and Griffin Road.
Investigators say Aileen Martinez was sitting inside a white SUV when her 25-year-old ex-boyfriend approached the vehicle and opened fire. Martinez was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect then turned the gun on himself. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition and later died from his injuries, confirming the incident as a murder-suicide.
Witnesses reported chaos and panic, with one caller telling dispatchers they saw “someone pointing a gun at a car.” As a precaution, nearby schools—including St. David Catholic School and Know It All Preparatory School—were placed on temporary lockdown.
Police later confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Location and Police Response
- Location: Aveda Institute South Florida, Davie
- Police Action: University Drive temporarily shut down
- Classification: Domestic-related murder-suicide
- Status: Investigation ongoing, no additional suspects
Authorities have not publicly released the shooter’s name and say a definitive motive has not been established.
Who Was Aileen Martinez
Aileen Martinez was a 20-year-old student from North Miami pursuing her dream of becoming a professional cosmetologist. She was enrolled at the Aveda Institute with plans to eventually open her own salon.
Beyond cosmetology, Martinez had a deep passion for music. She studied at a Miami music school for four years and performed rock ’n’ roll with local bands, often alongside her younger brother. Friends and family described her as energetic, creative, and compassionate.
Her interests included:
- Music and live performance
- Makeup artistry and fashion
- Thrift shopping
- Video games
Family members said her favorite color, jade green, symbolized the peace and harmony she brought to those around her.
Family Statements and Allegations of Stalking
Martinez’s family has publicly condemned the violence, stating the shooting followed a pattern of stalking behavior by her ex-boyfriend, though police have not yet confirmed specific details.
In a family statement, her parents said:
“We condemn the violence and stalking that led to this unimaginable loss. No one should ever live in fear for choosing to end a relationship.”
They emphasized that Martinez was embracing life and independence, making her death especially devastating.
Community Mourning and Support
In the days following the shooting, a growing memorial formed in the Aveda Institute parking lot. Friends, classmates, and community members left flowers, photos, and handwritten messages in her honor.
A GoFundMe fundraiser, organized by family friend Rachel Tracey, has been launched to help cover funeral expenses. The campaign has drawn widespread support, reflecting the strong impact Martinez had on those around her.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan 27, 2026, ~2 p.m. | Shooting reported via 911 |
| Minutes later | Police secure scene, schools locked down |
| Same day | Ex-boyfriend dies at hospital |
| Jan 29, 2026 | Family publicly identifies victim |
| Ongoing | Memorials and investigation continue |
Broader Impact and Ongoing Investigation
Davie Police continue to review evidence and witness statements. While officials reiterate that the incident was isolated, the case has intensified discussions around domestic violence prevention, stalking awareness, and the risks faced by individuals ending relationships.
Advocates say Martinez’s death highlights the importance of early intervention, protective resources, and taking stalking allegations seriously.
Remembering Aileen Martinez
Aileen Martinez is remembered as a talented, joyful young woman whose life was filled with promise. Her family and friends hope her story will encourage awareness, support for victims of relationship violence, and meaningful action to prevent similar tragedies.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief—and in honoring a life cut tragically short.