A tragedy has struck the bodybuilding community as Zunilda Hoyos Méndez, a celebrated bodybuilding champion, was found murdered in her luxury home in Fuengirola, Spain. The police are investigating her death and suspect that her husband, Jarrod Gelling, died from self-inflicted wounds after allegedly killing Méndez.
Details of the Incident
On Thursday, June 19, around 1:45 p.m. local time, police were called to Méndez’s home in the Higuerón West residential area after a concerned friend reported her as missing. The friend had not heard from the 43-year-old Colombian-born athlete for five days, which prompted the missing persons report.
When police arrived, they found the body of Méndez, who had been bludgeoned with a hammer, and her husband, 46-year-old Jarrod Gelling, with knife wounds consistent with suicide, according to reports from local news outlets Canaries 7 and SUR. Authorities believe Gelling took his own life after killing his wife.
Méndez’s Family and Concerns
Méndez’s niece, Yuleydis, expressed deep concern over her aunt’s absence, as they had been in daily contact. Méndez had previously confided in her family about Gelling’s aggressive behavior, and she had been planning to divorce him, according to her niece. Yuleydis stated that her aunt had shared with the family that she was planning to care for Gelling after his knee surgery, before heading to Portugal for a bodybuilding competition.
Méndez had shared details of her life and her intentions with her family, and her sudden disappearance without communication was highly unusual. Yuleydis told SUR, “For my aunt, it was her last trip with him, a farewell.” She also mentioned that Méndez had made the decision to divorce him due to his abusive nature.
The Couple’s Background
Méndez and Gelling, an American, had been married for four years after meeting through their shared passion for bodybuilding. While they did not have children, they had spent much of their time together in Dubai, where both were involved in the professional bodybuilding scene.
Bodybuilding Community’s Tribute
The tragic news of Méndez’s death has sent shockwaves through the bodybuilding community. Méndez’s bodybuilding coach, Branden Ray, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram Stories, recalling their preparation for an upcoming competition.
Ray wrote, “We had 17 days until we were going to hit the stage and shock the world, my friend,” and added, “Rest in paradise, Amy,” emphasizing how close they were to reaching their goal. He also highlighted the importance of addressing domestic violence: “Domestic violence should never be taken lightly, because it can leave many with a heavy heart.”
Fellow competitor Behnaz Azar also paid tribute to Méndez on Instagram, sharing photos and heartfelt words: “Amy – my kind, strong, fierce friend. The most powerful woman I knew in the world of bodybuilding, yet with the gentlest heart.” Azar expressed the shock and sorrow felt by the loss of such a powerful and beloved figure in the community.
Domestic Violence and Its Impact
The tragic death of Méndez underscores the devastating effects of domestic violence, which, despite its quiet and private nature, can lead to life-altering outcomes for victims and their families. Méndez’s story serves as a stark reminder that abuse can occur behind closed doors, even in the public lives of successful individuals.
As authorities continue to investigate the case, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances leading to the death of Zunilda Hoyos Méndez and her husband’s apparent suicide. The incident has highlighted the importance of recognizing signs of abuse and addressing the issue of domestic violence in all communities.
The murder of Zunilda Hoyos Méndez has left a profound impact on both the bodybuilding community and her family. A talented athlete with a promising future, Méndez’s life was tragically cut short by an act of domestic violence. Her death serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting victims of abuse and advocating for better awareness and resources to prevent such tragedies.
