After more than a decade on the run, Arnoldo Jimenez, one of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted fugitives, has been arrested for the murder of his newlywed wife, Estrella Carrera. The arrest took place on January 30, 2023, in Monterrey, Mexico, following years of collaboration between the FBI, the Burbank Police Department, and law enforcement partners.
Jimenez, 42, is accused of murdering Carrera just hours after their wedding ceremony on May 12, 2012. She was found dead two days later, on May 13, 2012, inside her apartment bathtub still wearing her wedding dress. Police discovered her body during a welfare check requested by her family after she failed to care for her two children.
Investigators claim the tragic events unfolded inside Jimenez's black 2006 Maserati, where he allegedly stabbed Carrera multiple times. After the murder, Jimenez reportedly dragged her body back to her apartment, leaving her lifeless form submerged in the bathtub. The nature of the crime shocked the community, and the investigation quickly turned to Jimenez, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant on May 15, 2012.
Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Chicago Field Office, stated, "The FBI is extremely appreciative of the Burbank Police Department, our law enforcement partners in Mexico, and the public for their tremendous investigative efforts and collaboration in the capture of Ten Fugitive Arnoldo Jimenez." This sentiment was echoed by Deputy Chief William Casey of the Burbank Police Department, who noted the importance of teamwork: "The apprehension of Arnoldo Jimenez was the result of the tireless teamwork by the FBI and Burbank Police Department, committed to bringing justice for Estrella Carrera and her family."
Jimenez's case gained national attention over the years, eventually earning him a spot on the FBI's Most Wanted list by 2019. Just days after his wedding to Carrera, he vanished, prompting federal authorities to add charges for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. His long evasion of law enforcement came to an end thanks to coordinated efforts from multiple agencies, including the FBI's Chicago and San Antonio offices.
Reports indicate Jimenez called his sister shortly after the murder, tearfully admitting to leaving Carrera bleeding after "a bad fight." This chilling conversation raised immediate concerns about Carrera's safety, leading to family calls for police intervention. Initial investigations revealed Jimenez's history of domestic violence, with his previous partner and Carrera's family detailing incidents of abuse and concerning behavior.
Estrella Carrera's older sister recounted past altercations, emphasizing, "Jimenez had hit and bruised her sister in the past," describing him as "very possessive" and expressing bewilderment at her sister's decision to marry him. Despite warnings from her family about Jimenez's behavior and their complicated relationship, Estrella had two children with him, adding layers of personal tragedy to this case.
Jimenez's arrest signifies not only the culmination of years of law enforcement collaboration but also highlights the deadly consequences of domestic violence. Authorities will now work on extradition proceedings to bring him back to the United States to face trial for first-degree murder. He will be held accountable for the alleged violent act against his wife, which robbed her of her life and left her family and friends shattered.
The FBI emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice, stating, "The FBI will use all of its available resources to bring criminals to justice, no matter how much time has passed or where they may be in the world." Jimenez now faces serious charges and potential consequences as he awaits extradition.