Authorities have arrested two men accused of drugging and killing an American Airlines flight attendant during a layover in Colombia. The suspects are allegedly linked to a gang targeting tourists.

Arrests and Charges

Andrés Felipe Peña Corrales, 23, and William Olave Gamboa, 31, were captured in Peru in relation to the murder of Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina, 32. Gutierrez Molina, based in Dallas, disappeared in Medellín, leading to an international search. Peña Corrales has been extradited to Colombia for trial, while Olave Gamboa remains in Peruvian custody. Both men are charged with aggravated homicide and robbery.

Gang Involvement

The suspects, along with María del Carmen González, 24, who was arrested separately in Colombia, are linked to Los Goteros. This criminal group allegedly targets tourists through dating apps, gaining their trust before drugging and robbing them.

Reports suggest Gutierrez Molina was approached via a dating app and later went to a nightclub in Medellín with several individuals. Afterward, he and a coworker were allegedly drugged in a hotel. Although the coworker survived, Gutierrez Molina was reportedly strangled.

Ongoing Investigation

Evidence indicates the group accessed Gutierrez Molina’s bank accounts and took other valuables. His body was discovered near Jericó, southwest of Medellín, five days later. The operation was a result of collaboration between U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, Colombian and Peruvian authorities.

This successful outcome reflects the strong commitment of the United States, Colombia, and Peru to work together to bring criminals to justice, ensuring the safety of international travelers, the U.S. Embassy in Colombia stated.

The investigation continues to explore if Los Goteros victimized additional tourists using a similar approach.

American Airlines expressed sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to Gutierrez Molina’s family and working with Colombian authorities on the case.