A Murder Suspect Fled To Mexico And Spent 5 Years On The Run. He Was Just Put In Cuffs.

After five years on the run and fleeing to Mexico, authorities said they arrested a suspect in a 2017 California murder.

Last week, Rafael Gama, 29, was arrested in Tijuana, Mexico, according to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office in California. The Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Marshal’s Office assisted in the arrest.

He was wanted in connection to the murder of 28-year-old Jesus Perales-Montalva, according to the sheriff’s office. The victim was killed on Sept. 1, 2018.

Investigators said Gama fled to Mexico shortly after the incident and had been on the run for five years.

He was taken into custody without incident and now waits a return to Tulare County to face charges.

Investigators say they continue to investigate the murder and anyone with information is asked to contact (559) 733-6218.