Suspected mastermind arrested in Uruguay for toddler's murder

Uruguayan police have apprehended a 30-year-old man in the city of Sauce, Canelones, who was sought for his alleged role in the murder of a one-and-a-half-year-old child. The incident occurred on April 27 in the Colón neighborhood of Montevideo.

The suspect, identified by the National Police's Directorate General of Complex Cases, has a history of criminal convictions. His capture followed extensive intelligence gathering and surveillance operations that pinpointed his location. Police learned the suspect intended to travel to Sauce, leading to his arrest in that city.

The fatal shooting took place at the intersection of Pasaje J and Aparicio Saravia. The young child was in a car with his father when assailants on a motorcycle opened fire. The child's father, 24, sustained three gunshot wounds but survived.

Investigators, citing information from Telenoche and the Ministry of the Interior, believe the arrested man had a pre-existing conflict with the child's father and is considered the mastermind behind the attack. The current hypothesis is that he coordinated the actions of a 16-year-old, who has already been charged in connection with the case.

Neighbors reported hearing at least five gunshots and screams during the attack. Police recovered six 9mm shell casings at the scene. The arrested man was also wanted for a separate double homicide that occurred on February 10 in the Cofrisa neighborhood of Las Piedras.

Following his arrest, judicial authorities ordered his transfer to the Montevideo Homicide Department. The prosecutor's office investigating the child's murder has summoned him to appear in court on Monday. A 46-year-old man is already facing charges and is in prison for this case, while the investigation continues to identify all responsible parties.