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Updated: Six face charges after body found on Potomac River

Murder Investigation *MULTIPLE ARRESTS – On February 22, detectives from the Prince William County Homicide Unit, with the assistance from multiple federal and local law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania, located and apprehended three suspects wanted in connection to the murder of Christian Alexander SOSA RIVAS.

The victim’s body was located along the shoreline of the Potomac River on January 13. After determining that the suspects were directly involved in the victim’s murder, information was received which indicated they were in the Newtown Township area of Pennsylvania. Prince William County police detectives with local assistance from the Newtown Township Police Department, Upper Merion Township Police Department, Haverford Township Police Department and the Marple Township Police Department, and with federal assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force successfully located and arrested the three suspects, one of which was identified as a juvenile.

Two additional suspects, both adult women, were charged as co-conspirators in the murder and were arrested in the Baltimore area of Maryland earlier this month. Detectives from Prince William County believe this murder was gang related as several of the suspects arrested are believed to be as members of the criminal street gang Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS13. All suspects will be extradited back to Virginia in the near future.

Arrested on February 22: [No photos available]

Edgar Oswaldo BLANCO TORRES, 24, of no fixed address

Charged with murder and conspiracy to commit a felony

Jose Martir LARIOS ESPENAL, 20, of no fixed address

Charged with murder

Arrested on February 22: [Juvenile]

A 17-year-old male juvenile of no fixed address

Charged with murder

Arrested on February 12: [No photos available]

Angelica Maria BLANCO, 19, of no fixed address

Keyri Sujey PORTILLO GONZALEZ, 18, of no fixed address

Both suspects above were charged with conspiracy to commit a felony

Update 5 p.m. 

Murder Investigation *ADDITIONAL ARREST – On February 23, detectives from the Prince William County Police Homicide Unit obtained a murder warrant for a sixth suspect sought in connection to the murder of Christian Alexander SOSA RIVAS. During the course of the active ongoing investigation into the victim’s death, detectives from the Homicide Unit identified this suspect as also being involved in the murder. Prince William County detectives, with assistance from the Stroud Area Regional Police Department, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department – K-9 Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, quickly located and apprehended the suspect in Stroudsburg, PA this afternoon. The suspect will be held in Pennsylvania until extradited back to Virginia. Five additional suspects, including a juvenile, were previously arrested in connection to this investigation.

Arrested on February 23: [No photos available]

                Samuel Enrique VILLALOBOS SANCHEZ, 18, of no fixed address

Charged with murder  

 

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