Episode 02 — Deadly Dating in Colombia: Tou Ger Xiong

Colombia

Jul 3

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Destination: Medellín, Colombia

Tou Ger Xiong, a Hmong refugee who fled Laos during the Vietnam War, built a life in the U.S. as a comedian and activist, advocating for marginalized communities. After his divorce, he sought new romantic ventures in Medellín, Colombia, where he met a 19-year-old local woman on Tinder. For months, their relationship blossomed long distance with late-night phone calls and texts. On December 10, 2023, during his last visit to Colombia, the woman trapped Tou Ger in a deadly setup. He was never seen alive again.

Listen to the full episode now.

What the hell happened to
Tou Ger Xiong in Medellin, Colombia

About Tou Ger…

➙ 50 years old
➙ Originally, a refugee from Laos but established in Twin Cities, Minnesota
➙ Social Justice Activist
➙ Avid Traveler
➙ Comedian

Hey everyone! Emilia here…and on this of True Crime Travelers, we talk about the case of Tou Ger Xiong, a beloved activist and comedian from Twin Cities, Minnesota, who loved traveling, especially, to Medellin, Colombia. But while enjoying the fun and lifestyle there, one of his trips took a grim turn when he met a woman who he established a relationship with. Through her, a local gang kidnapped Tou Ger and asked his brother for a ransom of $2,000. What he thought was a blossoming love affair, turned into his demise.

Tou Ger was an incredible person, and a huge light in his community, advocating for social justice, addressing racial discrimination against the Hmong people. He was beloved by many and left a big, big gap behind.

The many facets of Tou Ger, from social justice activist to comedian and life lover.

SOURCE: TOU GER'S FACEBOOK

Everything we mention on
Episode 02 of True Crime Travelers

If you haven’t listened to the episode, listen here:

Who was involved…

▸Marjorie Hernandez, Tou Ger's "unconfirmed" girlfriend from Medellin and suspect.

SOURCE: TOU GER’S FACEBOOK

▸A gang of four was arrested for the arrest and murder of Tou Ger: Sharit Gisela Mejía Martínez, Santiago Bustamante Londoño and Andrés Hincapié Obregón...and a unnamed minor.

SOURCE: MINUTE30.COM

Where it happened…Medellin, Colombia.

I had the chance to talk for hours with a friend who was born and raised in Medellin when writing this post.

Medellin is one of Colombia’s most beloved destinations. It’s known for its beautiful weather all year round, the lush greenery that surrounds it, and the lively nightlife you can find there.

But also…because Colombia has a complex past that has left a lingering sketchy reputation. So I can imagine how telling someone you’re going to Medellin might cause some reactions from some people. However, Medellin has really turned itself around from its dark Pablo Escobar days, and has become a hub of innovation and culture. Everyone is a entrepreneur in Medellin…and Colombians are among the loveliest people I’ve met around the world.

Tou Ger Xiong’s family is seeking help for legal fees in Colombia

SUPPORT THEM HERE.

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A mini-guide on what to do in Medellin, Colombia…

Of course, stories like Tou Ger’s might dishearten you a bit from visiting Medellin. BUT that’s what we’re here for, to debunk the myths, address the fears and tell you that as long as you use your common sense you will have a great time in Colombia. And everywhere you travel.

Here are a few of the highlights you can’t miss when visiting Medellin:

Here are five things to do in Medellín, Colombia:

Ride the Medellín Metrocable, where you can catch stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains while traveling on this innovative cable car system, connecting the city to neighborhoods like Santo Domingo and Arví Park.
Explore Comuna 13: Once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods, this area is now a hub of street art, music, and culture. Take a guided tour to learn about its remarkable transformation.
Visit the Botanical Garden and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this lush garden, home to exotic plants, butterflies, and a stunning orchid exhibit.
Admire Plaza Botero: Discover Medellín's artistic side at this public square featuring sculptures by renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero, whose work is iconic and unmistakable.
Visit the Museum of Antioquia to dive into Medellín's history and culture with a visit to this museum, which houses an impressive collection of Botero's works and other pieces highlighting Colombian art.