Albuquerque police detectives assisting the Denton Police Department located a vehicle tied to an ongoing homicide and missing person investigation from Texas, authorities announced. Police are searching for 49-year-old Richard Pastor Perez, who is accused of killing his estranged wife, 42-year-old Marjulin Daiuru Briceño Arrieta, in Denton, Texas, according to abqjournal.com.
Vehicle Discovery at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque Police Department auto theft detectives ran a Texas license plate on a white SUV during a targeted anti-crime operation at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and discovered it was reported stolen, koat.com reported. Officers contacted hotel staff at the Crowne Plaza and reviewed security surveillance footage, which showed an adult male parking the vehicle and walking away, according to kob.com. APD spokesperson Rebecca Atkins stated that detectives identified the man as Richard Pastor Perez. Investigators recovered the vehicle and processed it at the APD Crime Lab for evidence related to the Denton homicide and missing person investigation.
Active Search and Public Safety Warnings for Richard Pastor Perez
Richard Pastor Perez remains at large, and investigators believe he may still be in the Albuquerque area. Law enforcement considers Perez armed and dangerous, urging the public to remain vigilant. Denton police have issued an arrest warrant for murder against Perez, and the FBI’s Dallas office has joined local authorities in the search. Investigators from Albuquerque continue to coordinate with federal and out-of-state partners as the case progresses.
Denton County Crime Stoppers Offers Cash Reward for Information
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Richard Pastor Perez to contact Denton County Crime Stoppers at 800-388-8477 or visit dentoncountycrimestoppers.com. A cash reward of up to $2,000 is available for information leading directly to his arrest.