Denton police announced Tuesday that they have secured a murder warrant for Richard Pastor Perez, 49, the estranged husband of missing Denton mother of three Marjulin Daiuru Briceño Arrieta, 42. The warrant was issued based on evidence suggesting Perez killed his wife, although her body has not yet been found.
Timeline of the disappearance
According to a police release dated October 13, Briceño Arrieta met Perez at his apartment in the 1900 block of North Ruddell Street around 6:45 p.m. on September 28. After the meeting, relatives were unable to reach either individual and reported Briceño Arrieta missing, fearing for her safety due to Perez’s alleged history of abuse.
Detectives later discovered Briceño Arrieta’s vehicle abandoned near the apartment. Perez’s white 2013 Ford Escape was missing, and investigators found that its license plate had been swapped. License‑plate readers captured the SUV in Wichita Falls around 9 p.m. on September 28, then in Donley County shortly after 1 a.m. on September 29, and later westbound on Interstate 40 just west of Amarillo at 10:44 p.m. that night.
Search continues in New Mexico
Albuquerque police located the missing Escape and released hotel surveillance footage from September 30. The video shows a man matching Perez’s description exiting the vehicle and abandoning it in the parking lot. No other individuals were seen with him.
FBI Dallas is assisting Denton investigators, and the department has not disclosed the specific evidence that led to the murder warrant. The warrant underscores the seriousness of the case and the belief that Perez is responsible for his wife’s disappearance.
Community response and support for the children
Briceño Arrieta was the sole breadwinner for her three children, who have no close family nearby. A SupportNow fundraiser organized by community member Denisse Carrera is seeking $10,000 to cover housing, utilities, and basic needs for the children, emphasizing the importance of keeping the family together.
Local residents have already contributed food and toiletries to assist the children during this crisis. Denton County Crime Stoppers is offering up to $2,000 for information leading to Perez’s arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously at 1‑800‑388‑TIPS (8477) or through the Crime Stoppers website.
What’s next?
Police continue to search for Perez and any further evidence that could locate Briceño Arrieta’s remains. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could aid the investigation.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
