FBI-Wanted Individual Captured in Mexico

A decade-long manhunt ends as Arnoldo Jimenez, one of the FBI’s Most Wanted fugitives, is captured in Mexico for the alleged murder of his newlywed wife.

Key Takeaways

Arnoldo Jimenez, wanted for allegedly murdering his wife hours after their wedding in 2012, was arrested in Monterrey, Mexico.
Jimenez was the 522nd person to be added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, which has led to 496 captures since its inception in 1950.
The arrest highlights successful international cooperation between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement agencies.
Extradition proceedings have begun to bring Jimenez back to the United States to face justice.
The case underscores the importance of public assistance in apprehending dangerous fugitives, with 163 arrests attributed to citizen cooperation.

The Capture of a Most Wanted Fugitive

In a significant breakthrough for international law enforcement, Arnoldo Jimenez, one of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted fugitives, was apprehended in Monterrey, Mexico on January 30. Jimenez had been on the run for over 12 years, wanted for the alleged murder of his wife, Estrella Carrera, just hours after their wedding ceremony in 2012. The arrest marks the end of a long-standing manhunt and serves as a testament to the persistent efforts of law enforcement agencies across borders.

The capture of Jimenez was the result of close collaboration between the FBI, the Burbank Police Department, and Mexican authorities. This cooperative effort highlights the critical importance of international partnerships in bringing fugitives to justice, especially in cases that span multiple jurisdictions.

One of FBI’s Most Wanted, accused of murdering wife after their wedding, captured in Mexico after over 12 years on the run https://t.co/DZl5nVaxpL pic.twitter.com/wqhhEyddxz

— New York Post (@nypost) February 1, 2025

A Tragic Wedding Night

The case that put Jimenez on the FBI’s radar is a chilling tale of violence. According to authorities, Jimenez and Carrera had secretly married at Chicago City Hall on May 11, 2012. The following day, Carrera’s body was discovered in the bathtub of her Burbank apartment, still clad in her wedding dress.

Investigators believe that Jimenez killed Carrera inside his Maserati before leaving her body in the apartment. He was charged with first-degree murder on May 15, 2012, and subsequently with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Reports indicate that Jimenez called his sister after the incident, admitting to leaving Carrera bleeding after what he described as a “bad fight,” before fleeing to Mexico.

The FBI’s Most Wanted List: A Powerful Tool

Jimenez’s addition to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list in 2019 brought national attention to the case and increased the resources dedicated to his capture. The list, established in March 1950, has proven to be an effective tool in apprehending dangerous criminals. As of January 30, 2025, 532 individuals have been listed, with an impressive 496 captures, including 163 due to citizen cooperation.

The success of the Most Wanted list underscores the importance of public engagement in law enforcement efforts. With rewards that can reach into the millions of dollars, the FBI incentivizes public tips that lead to captures, demonstrating the vital role that civic participation plays in maintaining public safety and bringing criminals to justice.

Looking Ahead: Justice and Closure

With Jimenez now in custody, the focus shifts to the legal proceedings that will follow. Extradition processes have been initiated to bring him back to the United States to face the charges against him. This development brings hope for closure to Carrera’s family and serves as a reminder that justice, though sometimes delayed, can still be served.

As this high-profile case moves forward, it stands as an example of the enduring reach of law enforcement and the impact of international cooperation in the pursuit of justice. The capture of Arnoldo Jimenez not only brings a long-sought fugitive to account but also reaffirms the commitment of law enforcement agencies worldwide to work together in safeguarding communities across borders.