Authorities have apprehended an 18-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting and strangling an 11-year-old girl in Texas. The suspect, Juan Carlos Garcia-Rodriguez, was arrested by the Shreveport Louisiana Police Department and is currently awaiting extradition back to Texas. Garcia-Rodriguez allegedly provided a full confession after his arrest. The family of the victim has called for justice to be served, expressing gratitude to the Pasadena Police Department and Louisiana police for their efforts in apprehending the suspect.
The Pasadena Police Department revealed that a key found near the victim’s remains played a crucial role in identifying Garcia-Rodriguez as a person of interest. The key, which did not open the girl’s unit, was discovered during the initial investigation. Police used this key to match it with doors to other units in the Main Village Apartments complex. It reportedly opened a unit where the suspect had been staying, along with two other individuals.
During the investigation, police obtained DNA samples from Garcia-Rodriguez and ten other neighbors and witnesses. The suspect was described as evasive during questioning. It was revealed that Garcia-Rodriguez had been living at the apartment complex for several weeks leading up to the murder. Originally from Guatemala, he was staying with acquaintances who were connected to people he knew.
Chief Josh Bruegger acknowledged that the case had presented challenges for the department, with information emerging from various sources. One significant detail that came to light was the manner in which the victim’s body was found. It was revealed that the child’s body had been placed in a trash bag, which was then concealed inside a clothes hamper and placed under a bed.
The arrest of Juan Carlos Garcia-Rodriguez in Louisiana brings some hope for justice in this disturbing murder case. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to establish any connections between the suspect and the victim.