Man Identified as Suspect in Femicide Dies After Allegedly Taking His Own Life
A 48-year-old man, identified as Walter Urbieta, allegedly killed his ex-partner, Claudia Leguiza, 47, with blows from a hammer before fleeing the scene in the early hours of Friday in the San Juan neighborhood of Junín, Argentina. Urbieta was later found dead on Saturday along Route 65, near the towns of Tiburcio and Agustina.
Local police mounts an extensive search for Urbieta, who worked as a bus driver for Club Sarmiento, believing that he was attempting to evade capture. However, with his body discovered in a burned state alongside the motorcycle he had used to flee, investigators now suspect that Urbieta may have intentionally ended his own life.
The tragic events unfolded following an altercation between the two former partners. An autopsy on Leguiza’s body revealed defenses wounds, indicating she attempted to defend herself from the attack. Her body remained at the scene along with Urbieta’s burned remains and the motorcycle he had used in his escape.
Authorities, including the fire department and forensic specialists, continued to process the crime scene throughout the weekend. The case is under the jurisdiction of Dr. Vanina Lisazo, the head of the local prosecutor’s office, who is collaborating with judicial instructors to piece together the details of the incident.
Investigators found that Urbieta had previous denouncements against him, indicating a potential history of domestic violence. If confirmed that Urbieta took his own life, the manner of death will be classified as "Homicide aggravated by femicide followed by suicide."
As the investigation unfolds, the police, prosecutors, and judiciary continue to work together to bring justice to Claudia Leguiza and her family. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the need for continued efforts to combat this ongoing issue.
