U.S. Marshals have apprehended Luis Francisco Soriano, a 31-year-old fugitive suspected of brutally murdering a family of four—including two young children ages 2 and 4—after he fled the country and was discovered working at a hotel call center in the Dominican Republic.
Key Takeaways
- Luis Francisco Soriano was captured in the Dominican Republic after fleeing the U.S. following the August 2024 quadruple homicide of a family in Irondequoit, New York.
- The victims included Fraime Ubaldo, Marangely Moreno Santiago, and their two young children Evangeline and Sebastián, who were found dead in their burning home.
- Soriano and his brother, Julio Cesar Pimentel-Soriano (who was already in custody), are both charged with murder, burglary, kidnapping, and arson.
- The suspect initially fled to Puerto Rico before escaping to the Dominican Republic, where he was working at a hotel in Punta Cana at the time of his arrest.
- The arrest resulted from international collaboration between U.S. Marshals Service and Dominican authorities, with Soriano now facing extradition to face four counts of second-degree murder and drug charges.
International Manhunt Ends with Suspect’s Capture
After a months-long international manhunt, authorities successfully apprehended Luis Francisco Soriano, also known as Jefry Yevo, who was working at a hotel call center in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The 31-year-old fugitive was taken into custody “without incident after he completed his shift at the hotel’s call center,” according to the U.S. Marshals Service. Soriano had been on the run since August when he allegedly participated in the brutal murders of an Irondequoit, New York family, including two children under the age of five.
Soriano’s capture highlights the persistence of law enforcement in pursuing justice across international borders. Following the killings, he initially fled to Puerto Rico before making his way to the Dominican Republic, where he attempted to establish a new identity. The international nature of his flight complicated the investigation but ultimately proved unsuccessful in helping him evade justice. His apprehension represents a significant victory for the victims’ families and the communities affected by these horrific crimes.
The Brutal Crimes and Ongoing Investigation
The case centers on the deaths of Fraime Ubaldo, Marangely Moreno Santiago, and their children Evangeline and Sebastián, who were discovered dead in their burning home on August 31, 2024. Authorities believe the murders were particularly heinous, as evidence suggests the victims were killed before the house was deliberately set ablaze to destroy evidence. Soriano’s brother, Julio Cesar Pimentel-Soriano, was arrested shortly after the killings and has already pleaded not guilty to the charges.
“Every case is important to us, but this one not only deeply impacted our communities in New York and Puerto Rico, it shook our entire nation. The horrific nature of this crime, which resulted in the tragic death of a family, including two innocent children, rocked the very foundation of our society governed by law and order,” said Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra, U.S. Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico
Both suspects are cousins of Ubaldo, adding a disturbing family betrayal dimension to the already horrific crime. Authorities have revealed that Pimentel-Soriano is also wanted for a 2019 murder in the Dominican Republic, suggesting a pattern of violent behavior. The brothers now face multiple charges including murder, burglary, kidnapping, and arson. Luis Francisco Soriano is expected to be extradited to the United States to face these charges, which could potentially result in life imprisonment.
Law Enforcement Cooperation Delivers Justice
The successful capture of Soriano exemplifies how effective international law enforcement cooperation can deliver justice even when suspects flee across borders. The U.S. Marshals Service worked closely with Dominican authorities to track, locate, and apprehend the fugitive. This collaboration demonstrates the determination of American law enforcement to pursue dangerous suspects regardless of where they attempt to hide, sending a powerful message that borders will not protect those who commit violent crimes against American citizens.
“Without a doubt, this is an exceptional job by the Deputy U.S. Marshals of the U.S. Marshals Service, both nationally and internationally. It is truly worthy of recognition, and our communities should feel reassured knowing that this fugitive has been captured and will face justice,” said Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra, U.S. Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico
The case has drawn significant attention due to the shocking nature of the crimes and the victims’ ages. The fact that two children were among those murdered has galvanized public interest and support for bringing the perpetrators to justice. As Soriano awaits extradition, the judicial process will now take its course, with prosecutors preparing to present evidence that they believe will conclusively link both brothers to these heinous acts. The capture represents the first step toward closure for the victims’ extended family and community.
