MS-13 Gang Member Convicted in Long Island Murder
Mario Aguilar-Lopez, a member of the Sailors Locos Salvatruchas Westside (Sailors) clique of the La Mara Salvatrucha street gang, also known as the MS-13, pleaded guilty to murder and assault charges relating to his participation in the January 30, 2017 murder of Esteban Alvarado-Bonilla and the shooting of an innocent bystander, Jane Doe.
The guilty plea was entered before United States District Judge Joseph F. Bianco in federal court in Central Islip, New York. Aguilar-Lopez faces up to life imprisonment for the murder, 20 years for the assault, and deportation from the United States when sentenced.
“Aguilar-Lopez committed a deliberate, cold-blooded broad daylight murder in the name of MS-13, shooting a suspected rival gang member from behind and seriously wounding an innocent bystander who was simply working her job,” stated United States Attorney Richard P. Donoghue.
According to prior court filings and statements made during today’s guilty plea, on the day of the murder, a member of the Sailors clique saw Alvarado-Bonilla inside El Campesino Deli in Central Islip. Believing that Alvarado-Bonilla was a rival 18th Street gang member, the Sailors decided to kill him. Aguilar-Lopez and two MS-13 associates drove to the deli. Aguilar-Lopez entered, approached Alvarado-Bonilla from behind and shot him multiple times, killing him. One of the bullets traveled through Alvarado-Bonilla’s head and hit a deli employee standing directly in front of him, seriously injuring her.
The Suffolk County Police Department, Suffolk County Police Department, and the FBI Long Island Safe Streets Gang Task Force worked together to investigate the case and bring Aguilar-Lopez to justice. “The guilty plea will ensure that yet another violent member of MS-13 will be imprisoned for his senseless crimes,” stated Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart.
Aguilar-Lopez’s sentencing has not been scheduled yet. He will be held in custody until then. This case is a prime example of the relentless efforts of law enforcement to combat gang violence and keep communities safe.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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