Another suspect arrested in connection with carjacking-killing of young woman in Santa Isabel

Natalia Aileen Santiago Rivera (Instagram via Noticias Boricuas PR)

By The Star Staff

FBI Special Agent in Charge Devin Kowalski announced Wednesday the arrest of Javier Santos Alejandro, who is implicated along with Johnnuel Rodríguez Márquez in the death of Natalia Aileen Santiago Rivera in Santa Isabel.

“Today’s arrest is an important step on the path to justice for Natalia’s family,” Kowalski said in a written statement. “I am proud and grateful for the dedicated work of our FBI special agents, intelligence personnel, and professional staff, as well as our incredible colleagues at the Puerto Rico Police and the federal Attorney’s Office, who have tirelessly worked on this case. But this is not over, and you can expect us to continue to investigate this tragedy with persistence until all those responsible are held accountable. My advice to those who think they can get away with it: you won’t, so turn yourselves in.”

Santos Alejandro was charged with aggravated carjacking, exhibition of a firearm in aid of a violent crime, and attempted carjacking resulting in death.

Rodríguez Márquez, 18, was arrested last Thursday and confessed to killing Santiago Rivera, 25, in an armed carjacking.

According to federal prosecutors, Rodríguez Márquez 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 was slain.

Rodríguez Márquez faces a possible death penalty for the attempted carjacking resulting in death. He also faces up to life in prison for the remaining charges, U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow said.