Antonio “El Diablo” Riano, a fugitive wanted for a 2004 murder in Ohio, has been captured in Mexico. Riano, now 72, was apprehended on August 1 in Zapotitlan Palmas. He had been on the run for two decades after allegedly killing 25-year-old Benjamin Becarra in a shooting outside a bar in suburban Cincinnati. Riano had been featured on the “America’s Most Wanted” show and was listed on the Butler County Sheriff’s Office’s “Most Wanted” list.
Following the shooting, Riano fled the U.S. and evaded capture for years. The case went cold for a while, but a breakthrough came when authorities discovered that Riano had been working as a local police officer in Mexico. This discovery was made earlier this year when officials found his Facebook page, which led them to his location in Oaxaca. Riano was subsequently arrested and handed over to U.S. marshals in Mexico City.
Fugitive Antonio Riano Captured in Mexico After Two Decades on the Run for 2004 Ohio Murder
The evidence against Riano included surveillance footage of the shooting and video of him purchasing bullets before the crime. Additionally, the murder weapon was allegedly found at his home. Despite this evidence, Riano managed to remain elusive, first fleeing to New Jersey before returning to Mexico. The arrest was the result of persistent investigation and international cooperation.
Upon his capture, Riano was transported back to Cincinnati and is now being held in the Butler County Jail awaiting court proceedings. During his arrest, Riano stated that he had become a police officer in Mexico to help the local community, though he denied involvement in the murder of Becarra. The case had seen renewed attention from authorities earlier this year, culminating in Riano’s capture.
Riano’s arrest has provided closure for Becarra’s family, who were informed of the development. The case highlights the continued efforts of law enforcement agencies and the impact of international cooperation in bringing fugitives to justice. U.S. Marshal Michael D. Black praised the determination of investigators in solving the case, reflecting the success of persistent efforts in tracking down long-sought fugitives.
