Executive Summary
- Fugitive murder suspect Alex Castillo was returned to Charlotte after nearly 10 years on the run.
- Castillo was apprehended in Mexico following a joint effort involving the FBI and international authorities.
- Investigators utilized social media and developed specific sources to locate the suspect.
- Castillo is accused in the death of Sandy Le, who went missing approximately a decade ago.
Alex Castillo, a fugitive wanted in connection with the murder of Sandy Le, was returned to Charlotte, North Carolina, today following his apprehension in Mexico, ending a nearly decade-long manhunt. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed Castillo’s transfer to U.S. custody, marking a significant breakthrough in a case that has remained open for approximately ten years.
According to investigators, Le was reported missing nearly a decade ago. Authorities allege that Castillo utilized a loan to lure the victim to the location where she was killed. Following the incident, Castillo fled to Mexico, reportedly accompanied by an acquaintance, Amhia Feaster, who later returned to the United States. While specific details regarding the circumstances of Le’s death remain under review, officials noted that Castillo and Le had been romantically linked, a factor that added complexity to the initial investigation.
Special Agent Jim Barnacle of the FBI stated that investigators “exploited social media” and developed various leads and sources to locate the suspect. This multi-faceted investigative strategy was cited as pivotal in tracking Castillo’s movements across the border and securing his eventual capture by Mexican authorities.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Chief Estella Patterson expressed relief regarding the development, stating, “I am elated that a dangerous fugitive is in law enforcement custody.” FBI Director Kash Patel characterized the arrest as a “historic achievement,” emphasizing the significance of closing the net after such a prolonged period. “It truly is a historic achievement when you think about it, 10 years, 10 years have passed, and we found him,” Patel said, noting the agency’s enduring commitment to securing justice for victims and their families.
Procedural Next Steps
With Castillo now in U.S. jurisdiction, the focus shifts from the investigative manhunt to the prosecutorial phase. The legal proceedings will likely face scrutiny given the significant passage of time since the alleged crime, which can present challenges regarding evidence preservation and witness availability. As the case proceeds through the judicial system, prosecutors will move forward with the charges filed against him. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
