18-year-old arrested for slaying of Natalia Ailleen Santiago Rivera during carjacking in Santa Isabel

By The Star Staff

Agents from the Puerto Rico Police Bureau arrested 18-year-old Johnnuel Rodríguez Márquez early Thursday morning, who is accused of his alleged involvement in a carjacking that resulted in the slaying of Natalia Ailleen Santiago Rivera on Saturday, July 5, in Santa Isabel.

Rodríquez Márquez faces three federal charges for attempted carjacking resulting in death, completed carjacking, and weapons law violations, according to a press conference Thursday where the charges were announced by Chief U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow, Chief of the FBI in Puerto Rico Devin Kowalski, Justice Secretary Lourdes Gómez Torres and Police Commissioner Joseph González.

“The investigation remains active. This arrest represents an important step, but not the end,” Kowalski said. “We continue to track other individuals linked to the case.”

Rodríguez Márquez confessed to the crimes after his arrest.

“After being arrested and advised of his legal rights, the defendant decided to admit his participation in the crimes,” Muldrow said at a press conference.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the young man is linked to three incidents: the first carjacking occurred on July 2 in Juncos, where he managed to steal a Nissan Versa. That same vehicle was used on July 5 in an unsuccessful carjacking attempt in Juana Díaz, and was later seen in the area where Santiago Rivera 25 was slain.

Rodríguez Márquez faces a possible death penalty for the charge of attempted carjacking resulting in death. He also faces up to life in prison for the remaining charges, Muldrow said.

The police commissioner emphasized the agency’s commitment to justice.

“We will not rest until all those responsible for this tragedy are found,” González said. “This crime has shaken all of Puerto Rico.”

Gómez Torres, the justice secretary, highlighted the coordination between state and federal agencies, noting that the joint action led to a swift arrest.

“When we combine intelligence, will, and resources, results are achieved,” she said. “There is no room for impunity.”

The initial hearing against Rodríguez Márquez was held Thursday afternoon before Federal Magistrate Marshal Morgan. Authorities urged anyone with information about the case or related individuals to contact the FBI confidentially at 787-987-6500.