LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A long-awaited update in the homicide case of Lesly Palacio was announced by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on Thursday.
WATCH | The latest on the homicide case
It's been more than a year since Channel 13 reported Palacio's suspected killer, Erick Rangel-Ibarra, had been arrested in Mexico.
Thursday, almost five years to the date of Palacio's disappearance, we're learning that Rangel-Ibarra was extradited to Las Vegas, where he will stand trial.
FULL PRESS CONFERENCE | LVMPD provides update on Lesly Palacio homicide case
Palacio, 22, was last seen on Aug. 29, 2020. Her body was found on Sept. 9, 2020, near Valley of Fire State Park.
A retired police detective previously told Channel 13 it could take months or even years before Rangel-Ibarra appears in a Las Vegas courtroom, due to the lengthy and complex extradition process.
Video previously shared with Channel 13 showed Rangel-Ibarra and his father, Jose Rangel, moving Palacio's body from their home in the early morning hours of Aug. 29, 2020.
The cause of Palacio's death was ruled undetermined by the Clark County coroner. Still, authorities determined she was the victim of homicide based on the circumstances of the case.
Jose Rangel initially claimed Palacio died from an overdose, but later admitted to helping dispose of her body. He was sentenced in 2021 to serve two years in prison for helping his son after Palacio was killed.
LVMPD Homicide Lt. Robert Price says Rangel-Ibarra is now in custody at the Clark County Detention Center.
WATCH | Lesly Palacio family lawyer speaks out following suspect's extradition to Las Vegas
-
Plea deal in the works for man accused of killing 12-year-old Cristofer Suarez
A plea deal may be on the table for the man accused of driving under the influence and killing 12-year-old Cristofer Suarez.
Attorneys say man who attacked Clark County judge shouldn't get new trial
Deobra Redden, the man who attacked a Clark County District Court Judge, is appealing his case to the Nevada Supreme Court.
Possible road-rage shooting investigation closes part of 215 in northwest valley
Channel 13 has learned from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department that a man says he was shot at while driving on the freeway.
Officials confirm identities in suspected murder-suicide at Rio Hotel & Casino
The Clark County Coroner's Office has confirmed the identities of the two found dead at the Rio Hotel & Casino Sunday as 34-year-old Tawnia McGeehan and the daughter, 11-year-old Addilyn Smith.
