'Overdue Justice': Alleged Gang Member from Mexico Arrives in U.S. to Face Charges in 1995 Cheerleader Murder

 

A suspected gang member, Jose Luis Rios, who had been on the run in Mexico since 1995 after allegedly firing shots that killed a high school cheerleader and wounded her friend at a Houston-area park, has been extradited to the U.S. to face murder charges. The 47-year-old Rios was arrested in Mexico in August and recently brought back to face justice, booked into the Harris County Jail.

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg highlighted the collaborative efforts of her office and the FBI in locating and bringing Rios to trial. She emphasized the commitment to pursuing justice for the victim and her family through legal proceedings.

FBI Houston Field Office's Acting Special Agent in Charge, David Martinez, reflected on the agency's persistence, stating that almost 28 years after the tragic murder of Kristie Martin, her suspected killer is finally returning to Harris County for legal proceedings.

The incident occurred on December 23, 1995, at River Terrace Park in Channelview, east of Houston. Rios and his friend Jorge Mendez drove through the park in a red truck, approaching a group that included Kristie Martin. Despite Martin's attempt to avoid conflict by suggesting they leave, Rios opened fire, fatally shooting Martin in the back and injuring another woman in the group before fleeing the scene.

The victim's father expressed the family's confusion and pain over the senseless act of violence. Both Rios and Mendez fled to Mexico, where Mendez was arrested in 2001, tried, and sentenced to 31 years in prison.

After two individuals came forward with information, identifying Rios as the shooter, Harris County Sheriff’s Office detectives charged both Rios and Mendez. The case garnered national attention, being featured on television shows like "America’s Most Wanted" and "Unsolved Mysteries."

Rios was arrested in Mexico in August, and this week, Houston agents traveled to Mexico City to bring him back to the U.S. He now faces the possibility of life in prison if convicted of murder.

The story underscores the long journey to justice, with the FBI emphasizing that justice may not always be swift, but it will not be denied.

[SOURCE]