By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) has launched a full investigation into the death of a 48-year-old woman at an aesthetic clinic in the Rohrmoser district of San José. The incident, which occurred last Thursday, January 15, has sent ripples through the capital’s professional community after the victim was identified as a respected financial sector employee.
Cinthya Carvajal Guevara was pronounced dead at the private medical facility, prompting an immediate response from judicial authorities. OIJ agents secured the premises and began the process of gathering evidence to clarify the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. As part of standard procedure in such cases, Ms. Carvajal’s body was transferred to the Judicial Morgue for a comprehensive autopsy, which will be critical in determining the precise cause and manner of death.
To better understand the legal ramifications surrounding this tragic incident, TicosLand.com consulted with legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His analysis provides crucial insight into the potential liabilities and responsibilities at play.
In cases of this nature, the investigation must distinguish between an unfortunate, known risk of a procedure and outright medical malpractice. Prosecutors will focus on proving a direct causal link between the actions of the medical staff and the patient’s death, which could lead to charges of culpable homicide. Separately, the clinic as a business entity, along with the individual practitioner, faces substantial civil liability for damages if it is proven that they failed to adhere to established protocols or provide the required standard of care.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This distinction between an unfortunate but known risk and a definitive breach in the standard of care is precisely what authorities must now meticulously unravel. The potential for both criminal and civil proceedings underscores the gravity of ensuring such protocols are upheld. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for lending his crucial legal perspective to this developing story.
The case has cast a somber mood over the local business landscape, particularly at Grupo Financiero Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica, where Ms. Carvajal was a valued colleague. The financial group issued a formal statement expressing its profound grief and paying tribute to her contributions and character. The institution’s message highlights the personal impact of the loss on those who worked with her daily.
The family of Grupo Financiero Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica and its Board of Directors deeply mourn the passing of Cinthya Carvajal Guevara. Her dedication, kindness, and collaborative spirit positively marked all of us who had the privilege of working alongside her. We ask God to grant peace and comfort to her family and loved ones for such an irreparable and painful loss.
Grupo Financiero Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica, Official Statement
While the OIJ has confirmed the identity of the victim and the location of the incident, officials have remained tight-lipped about further details. Citing the active and sensitive nature of the investigation, a spokesperson stated that no additional information would be released to the public at this time. This standard protocol is designed to protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure that all potential factors are examined without prejudice.
The inquiry will likely focus on several key areas, including the specific procedure being performed, the qualifications of the medical staff involved, the protocols followed by the clinic, and the equipment used. Investigators will meticulously review medical records, witness statements, and the physical evidence from the scene. The results of the autopsy will be the cornerstone of the case, providing forensic evidence that could guide the direction of the legal proceedings, if any, that follow.
This incident also brings renewed attention to Costa Rica’s prominent medical and cosmetic procedure industry. The country is a well-known destination for medical tourism, attracting patients from around the world for a variety of treatments. The vast majority of these procedures are conducted safely by highly qualified professionals. However, incidents like this underscore the inherent risks of any medical intervention and the critical importance of rigorous oversight, stringent safety standards, and thorough due diligence by patients.
As the community awaits further updates, the focus remains on two parallel tracks: the formal investigation by the OIJ to uncover the facts, and the personal grief of a family and a workplace mourning a significant loss. The tribute from Mercado de Valores paints a picture of a dedicated professional whose absence will be deeply felt, transforming a clinical investigation into a human story of profound sadness.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Grupo Financiero Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica
About Grupo Financiero Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica:
Grupo Financiero Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica is a prominent financial institution in the country, offering a range of services that include brokerage, investment management, and financial advisory. As a key player in the Costa Rican stock market, it serves both individual and institutional clients, facilitating investments and contributing to the development of the national capital market.
For further information, visit oij.poder-judicial.go.cr
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is Costa Rica’s primary law enforcement agency responsible for investigating complex crimes. Operating under the authority of the Supreme Court of Justice, the OIJ handles criminal investigations, forensic analysis, and evidence collection. Its mission is to aid the Public Ministry and judicial courts by providing the technical and scientific evidence needed to ensure justice is served.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm blends a rich history of client counsel across a spectrum of industries with a forward-thinking approach, consistently championing innovative legal solutions. This commitment to progress extends beyond the courtroom through its core mission to demystify the law, fostering a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
