After nearly a decade on the run, a man accused of a brutal 2016 murder in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been captured. The FBI announced on Saturday that Alejandro Rosales Castillo, a fugitive on their Top Ten Most Wanted list since October 2017, was arrested in Mexico. The arrest took place on Friday in Pachuca, Hidalgo, as confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel and the FBI’s Charlotte field office.

Castillo is wanted in connection with the murder of his former co-worker, 23-year-old “Sandy” Ly Le, in Charlotte in 2016, and he is currently detained in Mexico awaiting extradition to North Carolina. This case, involving a years-long manhunt across borders, marks the fifth capture of an FBI Top Ten Most Wanted fugitive since last year, according to Patel.

The arrest has reignited discussions about the persistence of law enforcement in pursuing violent offenders. While many commend the collaborative efforts between U.S. and Mexican authorities, others question why it took nearly nine years to apprehend Castillo. This case highlights both the challenges and the determination involved in tracking fugitives who flee across international boundaries.

Capture of a Long-Sought Suspect

The events leading to Castillo’s arrest trace back to 2016, when Sandy Ly Le disappeared after agreeing to meet him at a gas station in Charlotte. Reports indicate that Castillo allegedly owed Le $1,000 at the time of her disappearance. Authorities later found Le’s vehicle abandoned in Phoenix, raising suspicions of foul play, as Fox News explains.

Castillo became a prime suspect in Le’s murder, but he evaded capture for years. By October 2017, the FBI placed him on its Top Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, signaling the urgency of the case. Two other individuals, Ahmia Feaster and Felipe Ulloa, were also charged in connection with the murder in 2017, with Feaster turning herself in after initially being listed as missing.

Feaster was extradited from Mexico to North Carolina and faced accessory charges, as reported by WTXF-TV. Ulloa was charged with accessory after the fact of murder in March 2017, per the same source. These developments underscored the complexity of the investigation, which spanned multiple jurisdictions and years.

Official Reactions to the Arrest

Patel praised the operation, stating, “Alejandro Castillo is the fifth FBI Ten Most Wanted fugitive captured since last year, more than the entire previous four years combined.” He added, “That reflects leadership, not luck.”

Patel also commended the teamwork involved, saying, “When law enforcement is given clear backing and the freedom to act, results follow. The work of the FBI Charlotte field office, our state and local partners, and Mexican authorities was exceptional, and this arrest finally opens the door to long-overdue justice for Sandy Ly Le’s family.”

Rep. Pat Harrington (R-NC) echoed this sentiment, noting, “Nearly nine years after a Charlotte murder, the man responsible is finally in custody.” He expressed gratitude for the relentless efforts of law enforcement in bringing justice to the state.

Community Impact and Law Enforcement Resolve

FBI Charlotte Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. highlighted the perseverance of investigators, stating, “The FBI and our partners at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have worked tirelessly to find and arrest Alex Castillo.” He added, “For more than nine years, he lived a normal life, likely believing he would never be captured, but our experienced investigators never gave up the hunt for justice.”

Barnacle Jr. also acknowledged the ongoing pain of Le’s family, saying, “Sadly, Sandy’s family began another new year without her. We hope knowing her accused killer is in custody will provide some level of solace now.”

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Chief of Police Estella D. Patterson emphasized the broader message of the arrest, stating, “This joint effort sends a clear message that those who commit violent crimes cannot outrun justice. Bringing this fugitive to justice makes Charlotte and other communities safer, and while nothing can heal the loss Sandy’s family has endured, we hope this step brings them some peace.”

Lessons to Learn

As this tragic case unfolds, it offers critical lessons for personal safety, especially when dealing with financial disputes or meeting individuals in isolated settings. While no precaution guarantees safety, and we must never blame victims for the actions of others, certain steps can help reduce risks. Crime can strike anyone, regardless of preparation, but awareness is a valuable tool.

Consider these tips drawn from this story to stay vigilant: 1) Avoid meeting individuals alone in secluded areas, especially over money disputes—opt for public, well-lit locations with security cameras if a meeting is necessary. 2) Inform a trusted friend or family member about your whereabouts and expected return time when meeting someone under potentially tense circumstances. 3) Trust your instincts; if a situation feels off, prioritize your safety and leave or seek help immediately.

These measures are not foolproof, and the responsibility for crime lies solely with the perpetrator. Sandy Ly Le’s story is a heartbreaking reminder that even routine interactions can turn dangerous. Our focus should remain on supporting victims and their families, not assigning fault to those who suffer from such acts of violence.

Why This Story Matters

This story resonates deeply within the Charlotte community and beyond, as it underscores the enduring impact of violent crime on families and the importance of justice, no matter how long it takes.

It serves as a reminder that law enforcement collaboration across borders can yield results, offering hope to those still awaiting closure in other unsolved cases.

The capture of Castillo also reinforces the message that fugitives cannot hide forever, providing a sense of security to communities shaken by such tragedies.