Brother of 'Fito' gang leader murdered in Ecuador

David Gabriel Macías Villamar, known as 'David' and brother of Los Choneros leader José Adolfo Macías Villamar, alias 'Fito,' was killed in a violent attack in Olón, Santa Elena province. The 35-year-old was found dead in a rented home early on July 12, 2026, following an assault by armed individuals who reportedly wore police-like uniforms.

While not as publicly prominent as his extradited brother, David Macías was considered a regional leader within the powerful Los Choneros criminal organization. Investigative information linked him to influence in Manabí province and potentially within the Jipijapa prison. His role differed from other siblings, such as 'Javi,' who was arrested in Colombia.

Macías had a history of legal troubles, including past charges for possessing a stolen vehicle and accusations of belonging to an illicit association involved in vehicle theft and extortion. He previously served a one-year prison sentence for illicit association and faced prior investigations for organized crime and weapons offenses.

The attack itself was carried out by seven to ten armed men arriving in multiple vehicles. They subdued security guards before entering the residence and fatally shooting Macías. Ballistics evidence at the scene included 30 shell casings from 9mm caliber weapons and 10 from rifles.

Authorities have not yet publicly confirmed a motive for the assassination or identified the responsible parties. Preliminary theories from police suggest a possible involvement of Los Lobos, a rival gang to Los Choneros, but this remains unconfirmed as the investigation continues.