LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — After years on the run, the man accused in the death of a Las Vegas woman stood before a judge Wednesday.
Authorities say Eric Rangel-Ibarra fled to Mexico in 2020 after killing 22-year-old Leslie Palacio. He was arrested there nearly four years later and brought back to LAs Vegas just last week after an international effort.
MORE: Suspect in 2020 killing of Las Vegas woman arrested in Mexico
He’s charges with open murder and destroying evidence. District Attorney Steve Wolfson says the arraignment will happen next week. He expects a not guilty plea.
In court, Rangel-Ibarra asked for a week to hire a private attorney.
“Let me say that this day had finally come for justice, long overdue,” Wolfson said. “Five years since the time that Leslie was murdered.”
Palacio’s body was found in Sept. 2020, just days after her family reported her missing. Police quickly identified Rangel-Ibarra as the main suspect noting that he was last seen on surveillance video with her at the Longhorn Casino and Hotel.
Since then, her family and friends have held memorials to keep her name and story alive.
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