Fugitive Alejandro Rosales Castillo Returned to North Carolina After Mexico Arrest

24 January 2026 U.S. News

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Alejandro “Alex” Rosales Castillo, a fugitive on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, was transferred to Charlotte on Friday to face charges in the 2016 murder of his former coworker, Truc Quan “Sandy” Ly Le. The 23-year-old first-generation college graduate was fatally shot in North Carolina, and Castillo had evaded capture for nearly a decade before his arrest in Mexico last week.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced the transfer during a press conference, calling it a “historic moment” for law enforcement. The FBI coordinated closely with Mexican authorities to secure Castillo’s arrest and subsequent extradition. This operation underscores the ongoing international cooperation between U.S. agencies and foreign counterparts in bringing fugitives to justice.

Castillo’s arrest follows a yearslong manhunt that spanned borders and agencies. The FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, highlights fugitives considered particularly dangerous or elusive. Castillo’s inclusion on this list brought heightened attention and resources to the case.

According to the Department of Justice, Castillo fled the United States shortly after the 2016 murder, crossing into Mexico where he remained at large until last week’s arrest. The collaboration between the FBI and Mexican law enforcement was critical to locating and apprehending him.

Upon arrival in Charlotte, Castillo was taken into custody by local authorities to face charges related to the murder of Le. Prosecutors are expected to pursue a rigorous case given the gravity of the crime and the length of the fugitive’s evasion.

Director Patel emphasized the dedication of agents and international partners in bringing Castillo back to the U.S., stating that the successful transfer sends a strong message that fugitives will be pursued relentlessly. The case also highlights the importance of cross-border law enforcement cooperation, as outlined by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

Le’s family and community have awaited justice for years, and Castillo’s return marks a significant step toward closure. The FBI continues to urge the public to report any information about fugitives or ongoing investigations through their official channels.

This transfer comes amid a broader FBI effort to capture fugitives who have fled the country, reflecting the agency’s commitment to upholding justice regardless of borders. Further updates on Castillo’s court proceedings are anticipated as the case moves forward.

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Priya Desai covers technology, platforms and data privacy, with a focus on how AI, social media and digital policy are reshaping work, speech and daily life.
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