An MS-13 gang member wanted on murder charges in El Salvador was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in New York City after illegally entering the United States with the intent of fleeing, authorities said.
On June 20, ICE deportation officers based in New York City arrested 27-year-old Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva.
Authorities said Hernandez Villanueva is a member of the Salvadoran MS-13 gang and is on an Interpol red notice for two murder counts in El Salvador.
He was arrested in Queens and found to be in possession of marijuana and a loaded handgun, authorities said.
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Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva was arrested in Queens. Authorities said he is wanted on two counts of murder in El Salvador. (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
Authorities said he entered the U.S. illegally at an unknown time and place.
“This violent criminal and MS-13 gang member mistakenly believed he could escape murder charges in El Salvador by infiltrating the United States and hiding out in New York City,” said Kenneth Genaro, ERO’s New York City Field Director. “We will apprehend these international fugitives and return them to their countries of origin to face justice. I thank my officers and our law enforcement partners for their courageous efforts and incredible teamwork in safely removing this dangerous individual from our community.”
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Authorities said Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva was carrying a loaded handgun when he was arrested in New York City. (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
Salvadoran authorities issued an arrest warrant for Hernández Villanueva on March 28, 2019.
On October 12, 2023, the FBI provided ERO New York City Long Island police officers with information regarding an Interpol Red Notice for Hernandez Villanueva.
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“You can’t hide by fleeing to another country, but you can’t get away with murder,” said Christy M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s New York Field Office. “MS-13 gang member Melvin Orlando Hernandez Villanueva was allegedly residing illegally in our city to evade Salvadoran authorities and avoid retribution for a murder charge. With the assistance of our city’s law enforcement partners, we were able to make this arrest. This arrest reflects the FBI’s commitment to capturing fugitives and removing dangerous criminals from our city.”
Fox News’ Bill Melugin contributed to this report.
