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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has escalated its search for a fugitive accused in the 2021 ambush killing of an Illinois Army National Guard soldier, adding the suspect to the agency’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list and offering a $1 million reward for information leading to his arrest. Authorities announced the massive reward for Joseph “Troubles” Matos, 44, who is wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Private First Class Chrys Carvajal
in Chicago. Law enforcement officials hope the substantial financial incentive will break the silence surrounding the long-unsolved murder and encourage someone with critical information to step forward. The tragic encounter took place during the Fourth of July holiday weekend on July 3, 2021, in Chicago’s Belmont Cragin neighborhood. Carvajal, who had recently completed basic military training and was scheduled to be stationed with a transportation unit in Riverside, Illinois, was walking to his parked vehicle after attending a family party. Federal prosecutors say that Matos, a reputed member of the Milwaukee Kings street gang, along with co-defendant Gary “Gotti” Roberson, spotted Carvajal — who had no gang affiliations — and targeted him simply for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Carvajal was shot and killed on the corner of Lockwood Avenue and Palmer Street in what investigators describe as an “unprovoked gang-related violence incident aimed at maintaining the gang’s turf dominance.”
While Roberson was apprehended in 2024 and remains in federal custody facing racketeering and firearms charges, Matos has evaded law enforcement for years. Authorities suspect Matos is receiving assistance to remain hidden and believe he may still be lurking in the Chicago area, though he also maintains potential ties to Dallas and California. Federal investigators have released extensive physical descriptions, noting Matos is “6-foot-2, weighs approximately 220 pounds, and features distinct tattoos, including ‘M-Town Kings’ on his neck, ‘MOST WANTED’ across his abdomen and ‘Trust no one’ on his hand. The drastic increase in the reward — which rose from $50,000 up to $1 million — reflects the severity of the federal charges and the commitment of investigators to deliver justice for the Carvajal family, officials emphasized. Carvajal’s mother and sister have consistently held public memorials and community vigils, pleading for witnesses to overcome their fear of retaliation and speak out. FBI officials stress that tips can be submitted completely anonymously through tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI, as they urge anyone who recognizes Matos to help resolve a tragedy that stole the life of a young service member.
Credit: oan.com |
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