Investigation into Nurse’s Murder Leads to New Suspect
A significant breakthrough has been made in the investigation into the murder of Gonzalo León, a 34-year-old nurse who was killed in the La Unión neighborhood of Montevideo on January 29, 2024. León was shot twice with a shotgun as he returned home from work, and his body was left on the sidewalk.
Connection to Another Homicide
The investigation into León’s murder was stagnant until a new lead emerged from another homicide case that occurred six months later. The second crime, known as the “suitcase homicide,” involved the murder of a 49-year-old man who was found dead in a suitcase in the same neighborhood. Five people were charged in connection with the crime, including a 20-year-old man who is now suspected of playing a leading role in both murders.
Arrest and Investigation
The 20-year-old suspect was arrested on Monday in Cuchilla Alta, Canelones, and has been charged with concealment. His partner, a 21-year-old woman, was also charged with concealment. The suspect has a criminal record for carrying weapons, and prosecutor Adriana Edelman and police investigators are working to establish whether he is also responsible for León’s murder.
Family’s Complaint and Progress in the Investigation
León’s family had complained to the Prosecutor’s Office in December about the lack of progress in the investigation. However, with the new lead and the arrest of the suspect, the investigation is now moving forward. The police presume that León was killed because he had denounced a drug sales outlet near his home, and they are working to confirm this theory.