Fifth suspect arrested in live-streamed torture, murder of three young women in Argentina
Argentine authorities have announced the arrest of a fifth suspect linked to the gruesome torture and killing of three young women, a crime that was allegedly broadcast live on social media and has shocked the nation.
The victims, Morena Verdi and Brenda Del Castillo, both 20, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, were found buried inside a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires, five days after they went missing.
Investigators revealed that the women were tricked into entering a van under the pretense of being taken to a party. Instead, they were kidnapped as part of a planned punishment for allegedly violating a gang’s internal code, which police say is tied to drug trafficking disputes.
According to Buenos Aires Province Security Minister Javier Alonso, the ordeal was live-streamed in real time, with about 45 online viewers watching the torture and murders as they unfolded.
Authorities confirmed that the fifth suspect ,accused of providing logistical support with a getaway vehicle, was captured in the Bolivian border city of Villazón following a coordinated operation between Argentine and Bolivian police.
This arrest brings the total to five suspects: three men and two women, all believed to be members or associates of the gang behind the killings.
Police uncovered the disturbing video after one of the detainees confessed during interrogation.
In the footage, a man identified as the gang leader can be heard declaring, “This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me.”
Autopsy reports detailed extreme brutality, including the amputation of fingers, nail removal, and severe beatings. Investigators said:
Lara Gutierrez had her fingers amputated. Brenda Del Castillo suffered a crushed face. Morena Verdi died from a broken neck.
While early reports suggested the killings were streamed on Instagram, Meta, the parent company of the platform, issued a statement denying evidence of any livestream on its services.
“We have not found any proof that the broadcast occurred on Instagram. Our team continues to fully cooperate with law enforcement,” the company said.
The case has triggered nationwide outrage, with women’s rights activists planning a weekend protest in Buenos Aires to demand stronger action against gender-based violence.
Antonio, the grieving grandfather of two of the victims, broke down while speaking to reporters:
“We can’t stop crying. They took two beautiful young lives from us. Do you know what those girls must have suffered, the pain they must have felt in their bodies?”
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing as they work to identify everyone who participated in the livestream and to bring all accomplices to justice.
