Reading, PA – A tragic case involving a missing Pennsylvania family has come to a grim conclusion with the discovery of three bodies over a span of several days. The suspect, 61-year-old Jose Luis Rodriguez, has confessed to killing the family’s father, Junior Cabrera-Colon, and dumping his body, according to police reports.
Timeline of the Case
The family’s disappearance began on Sept. 12, when Junior Cabrera-Colon, his wife Geraldina Peguero-Mancebo, and their 1-year-old son Jayden were last seen together. The following day, Cabrera-Colon’s body was found near Baer Park in Reading, PA, with a gunshot wound to the head.
Upon discovering Cabrera-Colon’s body, authorities learned that his wife and child were missing, prompting an urgent search.
Discovery of the Victims
- Sept. 19: The body of Peguero-Mancebo, Cabrera-Colon’s wife, was found in Ontelaunee Township, just outside Reading.
- Sept. 20: The remains of Jayden, the 1-year-old child, were discovered partially submerged in a marsh about 150 yards from where his mother was located.
The bodies were found in separate locations, adding further distress to the investigation.
The Confession
On Sept. 18, Jose Luis Rodriguez, a 61-year-old man, was interviewed by investigators. During the interview, Rodriguez allegedly confessed to shooting Cabrera-Colon in the head and then disposing of his body. Following his confession, Rodriguez was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including first-degree murder, third-degree murder, abuse of a corpse, and more.
Police Statement
The Berks County District Attorney’s Office stated that after autopsies were completed, the deaths of Peguero-Mancebo and Jayden were ruled as homicides. However, details regarding how they were killed have not been made public.
The Family’s Tragedy
The couple, originally from the Dominican Republic, had three other children, aged 8, 10, and 13, who are now left without parents. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help return the bodies to their home country.
Legal Proceedings
Rodriguez remains in jail without bond, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 3. The Berks County District Attorney’s Office plans to provide more updates during a press conference on Sept. 29.
Community Reactions and Safety Concerns
The case has rocked the local community, with many expressing grief over the tragic loss. The public is urged to stay vigilant and report any further information that might assist investigators.
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