Hialeah Horror: Santeria Ritual Ends with a Fatal Shooting and Shocking Stabbing!

A second arrest has been made in a violent incident that occurred during a Santeria ritual in Hialeah, Florida, on February 12, 2025. Yasmany Matos, 35, is now facing a second-degree murder charge after a dispute that escalated into a stabbing and fatal shooting.

The altercation began when Matos attended a Santeria ritual at the home of 50-year-old Milton Cao. Police say an argument broke out between the two men, which soon turned violent. According to authorities, Matos retrieved a firearm and shot a man named “Nodar” several times outside the house. Despite his injuries, Nodar managed to make it inside the home, where he armed himself with a knife and stabbed Matos in the head. Matos’ 16-year-old son tried to intervene during the confrontation and was injured with cuts to his arms.

Nodar attempted to leave the house, but before he could, Cao allegedly shot him multiple times, killing him on the spot. Officers arrived shortly after and arrested Cao, who now faces second-degree murder charges and illegal firearm possession. He has a previous felony conviction from 2012. Matos was taken to the hospital with a severe head injury but was later arrested after recovering.

Both suspects are currently held without bond. Cao is scheduled for an arraignment hearing in early March, while Matos has yet to appear in court due to his injuries. Both are expected to face serious charges for their roles in the tragic incident.

This shocking incident has left the Hialeah community shaken. Neighbors were stunned by the violence and described seeing a heavy police presence following the shooting. Local authorities have emphasized that this appears to be an isolated event, not a family feud, and that it does not reflect broader issues within the neighborhood.

Santeria, the religion that was being practiced during the ritual, combines elements of African spiritual traditions with Roman Catholicism. While the practice typically involves peaceful rituals like music and offerings, this event highlights the potential for violence even in these contexts.

The Hialeah Police Department is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and is committed to ensuring justice for all involved.