Tou Ger Xiong, a 50-year-old artist and activist from Minnesota, was killed in Medellín, Colombia, after being taken hostage.
Known for his significant contributions as a storyteller and advocate for social justice, Xiong’s death has resonated deeply across communities in the United States and beyond.
Xiong, a Hmong-American, was in Medellin, Colombia, intending to spend the holidays with family. His visit took a dire turn when he was abducted on December 10, 2023.
Reports indicate that Xiong was kidnapped by armed men while on his way to a date with a woman he had met through social media.
The kidnappers demanded a ransom of $2,000, which Xiong communicated to a friend during a phone call. Unfortunately, the ransom was not paid in time, and Xiong was killed by his captors.
His body was discovered in the La Corcovado ravine on December 12, 2023, bearing multiple stab wounds and signs of a fall from a significant height, estimated at around 60 feet.
The news of his death was confirmed by his brother, Eh Xiong, who described the loss as “indescribable.”
Born in Phab Kheb, Laos, in 1973, his family fled to the United States when he was young, spending four years in a Thai refugee camp before resettling.
He grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, and graduated as a valedictorian from Humboldt High School. Xiong furthered his education at Carleton College, after which he embarked on a career as a motivational speaker, storyteller, and rap artist, earning the title of America’s first Hmong comedian.
His contributions to cultural understanding and racial discrimination were widely recognized. In 2015, he played a pivotal role in organizing the first Hmong Minnesota Day at the Minnesota State Fair. His efforts in social justice were honored in 2019 when he was named a Bush Fellow, enabling him to pursue a master’s degree in public affairs.
Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota expressed her condolences, recognizing Xiong as an individual who tirelessly worked to uplift his community.
The investigation into Xiong’s death is ongoing. Colombian authorities and U.S. officials are working to bring the perpetrators to justice. At least one suspect has been apprehended in connection with the kidnapping and murder. Additionally, police are seeking a woman seen removing items from Xiong’s apartment on the day of his disappearance.
Xiong’s family has announced plans to set up a foundation in his name, ensuring that his legacy of cultural advocacy and social justice continues.