Débora Estrella's ex-husband spoke for the first time after her death — Video

A story marked by coincidence and journalistic duty: the story of a journalist who had to report on a painful loss.

The news that shook all of Mexico was not only the sudden passing of Débora Estrella, but also the way her ex-husband became involved in the coverage. The plane crash that took her life revealed the complex intersection between personal life and professional commitment.

Amid the commotion, José Luis García, journalist and former partner of the TV host, unknowingly became one of the first voices to report the tragedy. His initial post on social media highlighted how the unexpected can completely disrupt the routines of news reporting.

Hours later, once the victims' identities were confirmed, the journalist had to step in front of the cameras. He did so with a message that not only aimed to inform but also to publicly acknowledge a bond that had been a significant part of his life for more than a decade.

How was the accident initially reported?

The small plane crashed in the Ciudad Mitras Industrial Park in García, Nuevo León, Mexico, on September 20. Civil Protection reported that two people had died. Neighbors captured the incident on video, which was then shared across various digital platforms.

Amid his reporting, José Luis García published: "Plane crash. Nuevo León Civil Protection confirms a couple found dead near Riveras Interpuerto in Ciudad Mitras Industrial Park, García. Neighbors captured the aircraft on video as it fell near the riverbank".

Social media users quickly began speculating that one of the victims might be Débora Estrella. In response to the rumors and the shock surrounding the incident, García chose to delete the post around 11:50 pm.

What did José Luis García say when he appeared on camera?

The Monday following the accident, José Luis García opened the "Nmás Monterrey" newscast with a message that was both personal and professional. He expressed:

"Clearly, it was a difficult weekend on a personal level. I appreciate the trust you give us, which allows me to share a situation that, without a doubt, was very intense this past weekend. I still can't believe it, and we still can't believe it. Today, I have to inform you, as part of the commitment I have to you every day.".

"Many of you are likely aware of the story that shook us all this past weekend—the passing of Débora Estrella", he added.

Following this statement, he introduced a segment with information about the accident, updates from the Nuevo León Prosecutor's Office, and details about the TV host's funeral arrangements. His colleagues, Zyntia Vanegas, Gaby Lozoya, and Michelle Orozco, also offered words of condolence on air.

Local authorities confirmed that both Débora Estrella's body and that of the pilot, Bryan Ballesteros, were recovered near the Pesquería River. The mayor of García, Manuel Guerra Cavazos, stated that preliminary reports did not indicate mechanical failure, though the investigation remained ongoing.

What did José Luis say about Débora Estrella's life and memory?

During the broadcast, José Luis shared a message of respect and closeness toward Débora Estrella’s family, emphasizing the bond he had maintained with them over the years. His words acknowledged the connection they had built and the support he received during the most difficult moments:

"My deepest condolences to the Estrella Garza family, whom I hold dear… This fraternal embrace to Mr. Humberto Estrella Martínez, Mrs. Cecilia Garza, Mónica and Carlos, little Fer, and also Andrea. To Beto and Mayela as well, who allowed me to be by their side from the very first moment we learned of this situation over the weekend. Thank you very much".

He added: "For 15 years, I had the opportunity to share my life with Débora. We met in 2005, got married in 2010, and in 2020 we made the decision—both of us in a mature and serious way, always with great respect—that our lives were taking different paths. And with respect and deep love for all the years we shared, we each continued on our own journey".

"Of course, what we experienced this past weekend was extremely difficult, and this morning I want to publicly express to the Estrella Garza family… this feeling that I know is so raw right now. I don’t have the right words—I don’t think I ever will—but from here, all my love… we were family for many years, and we will always be family", he concluded.

This message highlighted the difficulty of the situation, showing how personal and professional lives were inevitably intertwined in this case.

What role did their story play amid the tragedy?

The relationship between Débora Estrella and José Luis García began in Monterrey in 2005, when they were both working in the media. They married in 2010 and kept their family life private, sharing only occasional moments on social media.

In 2020 they announced their separation, making it clear that the decision had been reached in a mature, peaceful way and with mutual respect. They had no children together and consistently chose to maintain their privacy.

After the tragedy, their story resurfaced among colleagues and followers, who noted that, despite the end of their relationship, the bond between them remained in memory.

How did social media users react?

José Luis García's public appearances, as well as his messages about Débora, sparked mixed reactions online. "Such professionalism, my respect for José Luis—an uncomfortable situation, trembling, with a lump in his throat, yet always handling it excellently. A big hug to him and the family", commented an user.

"So sad, and such courage to be there… he obviously looks very grief-stricken", said another person. "They should have respected the moment, but I feel the pressure on social media for him to speak about it, as he himself says, forced him to appear on screen. People don't care about the pain or mourning someone is going through; sadly, it's just morbid curiosity", someone else expressed.

"Visibly moved, as most of us are by that tragedy, or is it because of the GUILT. He said that they no longer had contact and at least I do not forget that during the divorce the only one who suffered was Débora, he freed himself, since a few months later he published a photo with his new partner", was another of the comments.

These messages reflect a mix of support and criticism, highlighting how media exposure during times of grief invites varied interpretations from the public.

What remains after this testimony?

The case of Débora Estrella illustrated how a tragedy can blur the lines between journalism and personal life. José Luis García was tasked with reporting the death of someone who had been a central part of his life for years—a reality that resonated with colleagues, family, and followers alike.

This episode invites reflection on the boundaries between private and public life in journalism, while also honoring the memory of a figure who left a lasting mark on television and on those who knew her. Watch below for the full video of José Luis García's message on Débora Estrella's passing: