A high-profile family case moved forward in Quito, where three brothers and two other relatives faced trial over the alleged murder of their father in a dispute involving an inheritance valued at more than $4 million.
According to prosecutors, the preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 10, more than five years after the killing of the elderly man, whose body was found on September 28, 2020, near his property in the El Chiche sector in northeastern Quito.
Authorities said the victim died from a stab wound to the neck. Investigators identified a suspect believed to have carried out the killing, who remained at large and was the subject of an international arrest notice.
The case drew attention due to allegations that several family members were involved in planning the crime. Prosecutors said the motive was to gain control of the victim’s assets, which included real estate holdings valued at over $4 million, as well as insurance policies worth an estimated $800,000.
Investigators said that on the same day of the killing, individuals linked to the case allegedly moved to take possession of the victim’s assets and began withdrawing funds.
Authorities identified three of the victim’s children as alleged co-perpetrators, citing prior financial disputes and reported threats. Two additional relatives, including a son-in-law and the victim’s partner, were also implicated in the investigation.
According to prosecutors, the partner had attempted to formalize a posthumous civil union in an effort to access assets, though the request was not accepted.
Officials said the case was supported by dozens of pieces of evidence gathered during the investigation. If convicted, those involved could face prison sentences ranging from 10 to 13 years.