Rihanna Shooting Suspect’s Disturbing Messages and Custody Battle

A woman accused of firing multiple gunshots at Rihanna’s Los Angeles-area home allegedly sent disturbing messages about the global superstar weeks before the frightening incident. The suspect, Ivanna Ortiz, is facing serious charges following the shooting on March 8, 2026.

According to TMZ, Ortiz emailed her estranged husband, Jed Valdez Sangalang, prior to the shooting. In the message, Ortiz reportedly demanded that he denounce the singer. “I need you to renounce Rihanna and confess that I’m better than her. Let it be done. You gotta let me know so that door can be closed,” the email allegedly read.

Estranged Husband’s Account

Sangalang told authorities that he only learned about Ortiz’s arrest after receiving a flood of calls and emails regarding the incident. He stated he attempted to shield their child from the news, but another student at school informed the child about the allegations. AllHipHop reports that Sangalang learned about the shooting on Monday after receiving numerous calls and emails.

Custody Battle

Following Ortiz’s arrest, Sangalang filed a request with the court to grant him full custody of their child. AllHipHop notes that this move is driven by concerns for the child’s well-being given the circumstances.

Details of the Shooting and Charges

Ortiz was arrested on March 9, 2026, after police connected her to the shooting at Rihanna’s residence the previous day. Investigators say several rounds were fired toward the property, with at least one bullet striking the mansion. Reports indicate the weapon used was an AR-15-style rifle. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The Daily Caller reports that Los Angeles County’s top prosecutor announced Ortiz faces one count of attempted murder, 10 felony counts of assault using a semi-automatic firearm, and three felony counts of shooting at an inhabited dwelling.

Rihanna and Family

It remains unclear whether Rihanna, her partner A$AP Rocky, or their children were home at the time of the shooting. The Daily Caller states that eight people were at Rihanna’s property during the incident, including Rihanna, her partner, their three children, her mother, and two others.

Previous Mental Health Concerns and Legal Issues

Ortiz has a history of mental health concerns. AOL reports that Ortiz was previously involuntarily committed under Florida’s Baker Act prior to 2023, meaning she was placed in a psychiatric facility against her will. She also lost custody of her child in April 2024 after a Florida judge cited “concerning testimony” about her mental health. She was on probation at the time of the shooting after an arrest for domestic violence.

Current Status

Ortiz is currently being held on $10.2 million bail as the investigation continues. If convicted on all charges, she faces up to life in prison. The Daily Caller reports that LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges on March 10, 2026.