Weston, Florida — The Broward County community is reeling after the discovery of prominent Venezuelan singer Gus Ormo, whose body was found in his backyard pool on October 16, 2023. The circumstances surrounding the 45-year-old musician’s death have drawn the attention of the local sheriff’s office, which is treating the case as suspicious.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office reported on October 19 that its investigation remains ongoing. Ormo, whose birth name was Gustavo Enrique Ormo, was discovered submerged in his pool after a call about a possible drowning prompted deputies to respond to his home on Quail Roost Drive. First responders arrived to find him unresponsive and confirmed his death at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the cause or manner of death. However, reports indicate he was found with a long cord in the pool, raising further questions about the circumstances. Communications from first responders described him as “tied up,” though officials have not released additional information about the item or its connection to his death.
A 911 call made by Ormo’s brother revealed the family’s alarm when they were unable to contact him. Concerned for his well-being, the brother went to the house with their parents, where he discovered Ormo in the pool. He expressed his belief to dispatch that Ormo may have taken his own life, although authorities have not confirmed any specifics related to that assertion.
The Broward County Medical Examiner’s Office indicated that the investigation could take up to 90 days to conclude, as they continue to conduct tests and analyses to determine the exact cause of death. Investigators have stated that they will withhold further information while the inquiry is ongoing.
Ormo, originally from Maracaibo, Venezuela, gained significant fame online with his heartfelt Spanish ballads. His track “100 Suspiros” garnered millions of views, and he had recently released an album titled “Alquimia” in 2022. Just days prior to his death, he pivoted to jazz with a new album named “Agape,” collaborating with notable musicians including Grammy winners Ed Calle and Carlitos del Puerto. His final social media post, shared a day before his passing, promoted a project he called “AGAPE Behind the Music.”
At a red-carpet event earlier this year, Ormo expressed satisfaction with his artistic journey, highlighting his Venezuelan heritage. He dedicated a song to his homeland, focusing on messages of reconciliation and unity. Neighbors described him as a private individual who avoided the spotlight despite his growing fame.
His passing has left a profound impact on friends and fans alike. Calle, who worked closely with Ormo, paid tribute by describing him as both a caring friend and a passionate artist. He noted that Ormo spread messages of love and peace through his music and will be greatly missed for his warmth and creativity.
Ormo’s sister, Antonieta, shared her grief on social media, stating the family is struggling to understand the events leading to his death. In an emotional message, she conveyed that her brother had simply moved on to a “better plane,” evoking his connection to music and light.
As the investigation continues, the local community mourns the loss of an artist who touched the lives of many through his music. Individuals in crisis can reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for support and assistance.