Shooter in deadly Parkland, WA, teen robbery arrested in Mexico
Suspect in Parkland, WA, teen's death arrested in Mexico
After an extensive search, the man who fatally shot a 17-year-old in Parkland after robbing him of his jewelry back in May was arrested in Mexico, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Office.
PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. - After an extensive search, the man believed to have been involved in the fatal May robbery and shooting of a 17-year-old in Parkland has been arrested in Mexico, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Office.
Parkland suspect: Brandon Torres-Mesa, 21, arrested in Mexico
Brandon Torres-Mesa, suspected shooter in a Parkland teen's murder. (Pierce County Sheriff's Office)
What we know:
Brandon Torres-Mesa, 21, is believed to be the man who murdered Braylon Diaz on the night of May 24. Law enforcement had already arrested two other suspects in the deadly shooting, but Torres-Mesa went on the run.
Authorities said that through the relentless efforts of detectives, the FBI, and law enforcement in Mexico, Torres-Mesa was located, apprehended and returned to the U.S. The suspect is in custody and will be extradited to Washington to face trial.
What they're saying:
"While no arrest can erase the pain experienced by the victim’s loved ones, today’s announcement marks an important step toward justice," the sheriff’s office wrote in a press release. "It is our hope that this development brings a measure of peace and closure to the victim's family, knowing that the individual accused in this case is now in custody and is no longer in a position to harm anyone else."
Chelsea Diaz, stepmother of Braylon Diaz, released the following statement after learning of Torres-Mesa's arrest:
"On behalf of the Diaz family, we are relieved to know that a suspect is finally in custody. While we know there is still a long road ahead, this is an important step toward justice for our beloved Braylon.
"We will be present every step of the way through the court process, advocating for our son and honoring his memory. Our hope is that the legal process brings accountability and justice for the life that was taken far too soon.
"For the first time in a long time, we feel a little safer in our community, and for that we are incredibly grateful.
"To the Parkland community, our family, our friends, and every single person who has stood beside us, shared Braylon's story, offered encouragement, or shown us love and support—thank you. Your kindness has carried us through our darkest days, and we will never forget it.
"From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with the Diaz family. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts as we move through the next chapter of this journey."
What we don't know:
Additional information will be released when it becomes available.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
The Source: Information in this story comes from the Pierce County Sheriff's Office.
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