All The Babes
Mia Zapata
Career
Active 1986 – 1993
Biography
About Mia Zapata
Mia Katherine Zapata, an American musician, was the lead vocalist and lyricist of the punk rock band the Gits. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, she became a standout in the Seattle music scene, known for powerful vocals and a fiery stage presence. Her life ended tragically in 1993. She was raped and murdered while walking home from the Comet Tavern in Seattle at age 27. At the time, the Gits had just accepted an offer from Atlantic Records and were preparing for a national tour. Nearly a decade later, DNA evidence identified Jesus Mezquia as her killer. He was convicted of first-degree felony murder in 2004 and sentenced to 36 years in prison. She was slim.
Record
Profile details
Personal
- Died
- Wednesday 7th of July 1993 (age 27)
- Years Active
- 1986-1993 (started around 20 years old; 7 years active)
- Birthplace
- Louisville, Kentucky, United States
- Ethnicity
- Caucasian
Frequently asked
What happened after Mia Zapata's murder case went cold?
In December 2002, DNA evidence from the crime scene was tested and matched Jesus Mezquia, leading to his arrest in January 2003 and conviction in March 2004.
Was the Gits' career interrupted by her death?
Yes, the band had just been signed to Atlantic Records and was about to tour when Zapata was killed.
Did you know
- Her murder remained unsolved for nearly a decade until DNA evidence led to a conviction.
- The Gits' signing with Atlantic Records came just before her death.
More American Musician profiles
Help improve this profile
Spot something wrong or missing? Fix a detail, add a link, or share a fact. Every submission is reviewed before it goes live.
Are you Mia Zapata?