Colombian bodybuilding champion Zunilda Hoyos Méndez, also known as “Amy,” was found dead at her luxury home in southern Spain last week in what authorities are investigating as a case of domestic violence and murder-suicide.
The 43-year-old athlete’s body was discovered inside her residence in the Higuerón West residential complex in Fuengirola on Thursday, June 19, after a friend filed a missing person report, according to Spanish media outlets Canaries 7 and SUR. Police entered the home around 1:45 p.m. local time and found Méndez dead from apparent blunt force injuries. A hammer was reportedly used in the attack.
Her husband, 46-year-old Jarrod Gelling, an American citizen, was also found at the scene with knife wounds believed to be self-inflicted. Authorities suspect Gelling took his own life after killing Méndez. Police have not yet released an official statement confirming the timeline or motive, but investigations are ongoing.
Family members say Méndez had recently expressed concerns about her husband’s behavior. Her niece, Yuleydis, told SUR that Méndez had been open with her family about her intentions to divorce Gelling, citing his “aggressive behavior.” The couple, who had met through bodybuilding four years prior, had no children and had previously spent significant time living in Dubai.
“She told us everything,” said Yuleydis. “She even said this would be her last trip with him, a farewell.”
Concern for Méndez’s safety began when she failed to respond to messages and missed several training sessions at her gym in Fuengirola. Her disappearance was particularly unusual, according to her niece, as she was known for staying in close contact with family and friends.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the international bodybuilding community. Branden Ray, Méndez’s coach, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, remembering her ambition and dedication.
“We had 17 days until we were going to hit the stage and shock the world, my friend,” Ray wrote. “We were so close to the end, but the closest person to you ended it too soon. Domestic violence should never be taken lightly.”
Fellow competitor Behnaz Azar also mourned the loss, describing Méndez as a “kind, strong, fierce friend” with “the gentlest heart.”
Fuengirola Local Police have not yet commented publicly on the case.
Méndez’s death is the latest in a troubling pattern of domestic violence cases reported across Europe. Her killing adds to a growing call for increased awareness and intervention in relationships marked by signs of abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, resources are available 24/7 for support and protection.
