Rafael de la Cruz López Leyton died that day in Tierras Blancas from a gunshot wound to the skull, as stated in his Death Certificate.

According to information obtained from the judicial proceedings and statements from his family, on the day of the events, Rafael López was with some friends at a recreational venue. Carabineros officers from Curimón, who had entered the premises to verify compliance with the Alcohol Law, detained him and took him outside.

Rafael López attempted to break free and escape his captors, and one of them shot him, striking him in the head.

A judicial investigation into the events was conducted at the Military Prosecutor's Office in San Felipe, which was dismissed after the Military Judge determined that there was no evidence to justify the commission of a crime. However, the Investigaciones police concluded in their report that the death of López Leyton was the result of a homicide by firearm.

Considering the evidence gathered and the investigation conducted by this Corporation, the Superior Council declared Rafael de la Cruz López Leyton a victim of human rights violations by State agents who made improper use of force.