After nearly a decade on the run, Alejandro Rosales Castillo’s capture in Mexico marks a pivotal moment in the quest for justice for Sandy Le.
Story Snapshot
- Alejandro Rosales Castillo, wanted for the 2016 murder of Sandy Le, captured in Mexico.
- Castillo evaded capture for over nine years, living a seemingly normal life.
- The FBI added Castillo to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list in October 2017.
- International cooperation between U.S. and Mexican authorities led to his arrest.
Decade-Long Manhunt Concludes
The arrest of Alejandro Rosales Castillo on January 16, 2026, in Mexico concludes a nearly decade-long manhunt following the murder of 23-year-old Sandy Le in Charlotte, North Carolina. Castillo, who was just 17 at the time of the crime, had been on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list since October 2017. The murder stemmed from a financial dispute, with Castillo owing Le $1,000, which tragically escalated into a fatal encounter.
On August 9, 2016, Castillo contacted Le, suggesting he would repay the debt. However, investigators believe Castillo forced Le to withdraw $1,000 from an ATM before taking her to a wooded area in Cabarrus County, where he shot her. Her body was discovered days later, leading to an extensive investigation by the FBI and local law enforcement.
International Dimension and Challenges
The case took an international turn when Castillo fled the country, crossing into Mexico from Arizona. The FBI, in collaboration with Mexican authorities, persisted in their efforts to locate and apprehend Castillo despite the challenges of tracking a fugitive across borders. This successful capture underscores the importance of international cooperation in law enforcement and the relentless pursuit of justice regardless of time and distance.
Ahmia Feaster, an accomplice who assisted Castillo in fleeing, was captured and extradited back to the United States in October 2016. Her cooperation provided crucial insights into Castillo’s movements and helped keep the case active within law enforcement circles, ensuring it remained a priority despite the passage of time.
Justice and Closure for Sandy Le’s Family
The arrest of Castillo brings a sense of closure to Sandy Le’s family, who have waited nearly a decade for justice. The family’s enduring hope and the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies have finally culminated in Castillo’s capture. This development not only brings a measure of relief to the family but also reaffirms the community’s faith in the justice system.
With Castillo now in custody, the focus shifts to the legal proceedings that will determine his fate. Extradition processes are underway to bring him back to North Carolina, where he faces charges of first-degree murder and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. The FBI’s $250,000 reward for information leading to his capture highlights the significance and priority of this case within federal law enforcement.
