New York, NY — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Queens community and rippled through international headlines after a 31-year-old mother of two, María Paz Peñaloza, lost her life following an illegal and botched cosmetic procedure. Authorities have since apprehended Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, the man allegedly responsible for the unauthorized surgery, and the case is raising serious questions about the dangers of unlicensed medical practices.

The Tragic Timeline: What Happened to María Paz Peñaloza

On March 28, 2025, María Paz Peñaloza, a vibrant woman originally from Colombia and a mother to two young children, underwent a butt implant removal procedure at a private home in Queens, New York. The procedure was not performed at a certified medical facility, nor was it conducted by a licensed physician. Instead, authorities say, it was done by Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, a 38-year-old man who falsely portrayed himself as a licensed cosmetic practitioner.

According to the criminal complaint obtained by the Associated Press, Hoyos-Foronda allegedly injected Peñaloza with lidocaine, a local anesthetic typically used in minor medical procedures. However, something went terribly wrong — Peñaloza reportedly suffered cardiac arrest shortly after the injection.

Emergency responders were called to the scene, and María Paz was rushed to the hospital. Tragically, doctors indicated that she had suffered extensive brain damage and showed no signs of brain activity. After battling for nearly two weeks, she was taken off life support on April 11, surrounded by grieving loved ones.

María Paz Peñaloza: A Life Cut Short

Described by her friends and family as loving, bright, and full of life, María Paz Peñaloza had moved to the United States with hopes of building a better future for her children. Known for her infectious smile and warm personality, she was deeply committed to her family and often spoke of her dreams of creating a prosperous and healthy life for them.

Her untimely death has left two children motherless and a family devastated. Loved ones have established a GoFundMe campaign to help bring her relatives from Colombia to New York so they could say their final goodbyes and handle funeral arrangements.

“Our hearts are broken,” one relative wrote. “María Paz was the light of our family, and now we are left in darkness.”

Felipe Hoyos-Foronda: The Man Behind the Tragedy

Felipe Hoyos-Foronda is accused of running an underground cosmetic surgery business, heavily promoting his services through TikTok and other social media platforms. In his posts, he touted competitive prices for procedures like Botox, lip fillers, and body sculpting, often presenting himself as a licensed doctor.

Authorities revealed that Hoyos-Foronda had no valid medical license to perform any medical procedures. Alarmingly, he offered his services in both New York and Miami, suggesting a wider web of potential illegal activities.

Following Peñaloza’s cardiac arrest, Hoyos-Foronda attempted to flee the country. He was apprehended at John F. Kennedy International Airport, reportedly while trying to board a flight out of the United States. Law enforcement officials swiftly charged him with unauthorized practice of a profession and criminally negligent homicide.

Dangers of Unlicensed Cosmetic Procedures

Medical professionals warn that procedures performed by unlicensed individuals carry severe risks, including infection, disfigurement, and death. Dr. Laura Simmons, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York City, emphasized:

“Any surgical procedure, even those considered ‘minor,’ carries significant risk. Only licensed, trained, and certified medical professionals should ever perform them.”

According to a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, cases involving botched cosmetic procedures performed outside clinical settings have increased by nearly 35% over the past decade, often disproportionately affecting minority and immigrant communities seeking more affordable options.

A Widening Investigation

Authorities are now probing whether Hoyos-Foronda had additional clients and if there are more victims who have not yet come forward. Investigators are combing through his social media accounts and financial records to piece together the extent of his unauthorized practice.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies are warning the public to remain vigilant and ensure that anyone performing medical or cosmetic procedures is properly licensed by the state. Consumer protection advocates are calling for stronger regulations and oversight to prevent future tragedies like María Paz Peñaloza’s.

Community Reaction: Outrage and Grief

The Queens community has responded with an outpouring of support for María Paz’s family and outrage against unlicensed medical practitioners. Memorials, vigils, and online campaigns have sprung up in her honor, with many calling for stricter crackdowns on illegal cosmetic services.

“María Paz deserved better,” said one community leader. “She trusted someone who preyed on her hopes and dreams. We must do more to protect others from suffering the same fate.”

Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentences

Felipe Hoyos-Foronda faces a slew of charges that could result in decades of prison time if convicted. Prosecutors are pursuing charges of unauthorized practice of medicine, criminally negligent homicide, and assault. Legal experts expect a lengthy trial, particularly given the intense media attention surrounding the case.

“This case highlights glaring loopholes in the regulation of cosmetic practices,” said legal analyst Erica Mendoza. “Prosecutors will likely use this as a test case to advocate for tougher penalties on individuals performing unauthorized medical procedures.”

Hoyos-Foronda is currently being held without bail as he awaits trial.

The Broader Conversation: Cosmetic Surgery Culture

The case has also reignited debates around societal pressures that push individuals to seek cosmetic enhancements — sometimes at great personal risk. Experts point to the increasing influence of social media, which often glorifies unattainable beauty standards.

Dr. Simmons notes:

“We live in a culture that celebrates transformation but often fails to discuss the dangers. It’s critical to promote informed, healthy choices and ensure that people understand the risks of unlicensed providers.”

Remembering María Paz Peñaloza

At her core, María Paz was a woman driven by love for her children and family. Her life, ambitions, and dreams have been cut short, but her memory remains a beacon for those fighting to prevent future tragedies.

Friends have described her as someone who always placed others’ needs above her own. She often volunteered at local schools and community centers, bringing joy and hope wherever she went.

Plans for a memorial service are underway, and the Colombian community in New York is organizing a vigil in her honor.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

The tragic death of María Paz Peñaloza is not just an isolated incident but a wake-up call. It shines a harsh light on the dangerous underbelly of unregulated cosmetic procedures, the vulnerabilities exploited by unlicensed individuals, and the need for urgent systemic reform.

As authorities continue to investigate and prosecutors prepare for trial, María Paz’s family and community vow to keep her memory alive by fighting for justice and advocating for safer cosmetic practices.

Rest in peace, María Paz Peñaloza. Your light, love, and legacy will not be forgotten.