- By Shivangi Sharma
- Sun, 20 Apr 2025 08:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Maria Penaloza Cabrera, a Colombian national, tragically died on April 11, 2025, after being declared brain-dead weeks earlier. The 46-year-old had undergone a butt implant removal procedure on March 28 in New York City, which ultimately led to her death. The surgery was allegedly performed by Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, 38, who is now facing criminal charges for practicing medicine without a license.
Hoyos-Foronda reportedly ran an illegal cosmetic clinic out of a residential home in the Ditmars Steinway neighborhood of Queens, New York. Authorities revealed that he advertised his services—including Botox injections, liposuction, and butt lifts—on TikTok. Hoyos-Foronda reportedly ran an illegal cosmetic clinic out of a residential home in the Ditmars Steinway neighborhood of Queens, New York. Authorities revealed that he advertised his services—including Botox injections, liposuction, and butt lifts—on TikTok. His videos, which have since been taken down, showed footage of patients undergoing procedures and promoted significant discounts to attract clients. Despite having no medical license, Hoyos-Foronda posed as a legitimate professional and performed invasive surgeries, leading to catastrophic results in Cabrera’s case.
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Attempted Escape And Arrest
Following the failed procedure on Cabrera, Hoyos-Foronda attempted to flee the country. On March 28—the same day Cabrera underwent surgery—he was arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport. He was reportedly trying to board a connecting flight to Colombia when authorities apprehended him.
He now faces serious charges including second-degree assault and unauthorized practice of a profession. Prosecutors have suggested that the charges may be upgraded, depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Cause Of Death: Lidocaine Toxicity
The suspected cause of Cabrera’s death is lidocaine toxicity, according to prosecutors. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic commonly used during minor surgeries. While it is generally considered safe when administered in proper doses by licensed professionals, improper injection techniques or excessive quantities can lead to fatal complications such as cardiac arrest or neurological damage. Authorities are investigating whether Hoyos-Foronda’s misuse of the drug directly caused Cabrera’s brain death.