Jose Antonio Ibarra Wiki, Age, Brother, Parents, Criminal Record & More

All About Laken Riley’s Murder Suspect Jose Antonio Ibarra

Jose Antonio Ibarra (born 1997, age 26) is a Venezuelan national who currently resides in Georgia, United States. He was arrested in connection with the murder of nursing student Laken Riley, whose body was discovered on the University of Georgia campus on February 22, 2024.

Ibarra was apprehended after crucial evidence from CCTV footage linked him to Riley’s death. He now faces charges of murder and kidnapping. Additionally, his brother Diego was also taken into custody after the incident, revealing that Diego possessed a fake green card.

Ibarra, who entered the US illegally in September 2022, is not a US citizen and was not enrolled as a student at the University of Georgia. Despite the lack of a prior relationship between Ibarra and Riley, authorities believe the crime was an opportunistic act.

CCTV Footage Aided The Arrest

Laken Hope Riley was a dedicated student known for her academic achievements and involvement in a sorority. Tragically, on February 22, 2024, she was found deceased near Lake Herrick, having suffered blunt force trauma.

Shortly after the discovery, Jose Antonio Ibarra was identified as the main suspect and was swiftly taken into custody by authorities. UGA Police Chief Jeffrey Clark stated that evidence was sufficient to charge Ibarra even before a search warrant was executed.

Crucial CCTV footage supported the arrest, leading to Ibarra being the sole individual charged in connection with Riley’s death. Presently, Ibarra faces 8 charges, including malice murder, aggravated battery, kidnapping, concealing the death of another, and hindering a 911 call.

Ibarra’s Brother Was Also Arrested

Diego Ibarra, the older brother of Jose Ibarra who was recently arrested, is facing legal issues in Athens as reported by the Department of Justice (DOJ). Diego’s problems began when he was taken into custody for possessing a fake green card following Jose’s arrest.

According to reports, Diego was one of three individuals questioned by authorities on February 23 regarding the Laken Riley murder case. Athens-Clarke County police detained Diego because he matched the description of a person of interest in the investigation.

Upon presenting a U.S. permanent resident card (commonly known as a green card) for identification, investigators grew suspicious about its authenticity. Homeland Security Investigations were then called in to verify the validity of the card.

A subsequent statement revealed that Diego, originally from Venezuela, was undergoing expedited removal proceedings. However, he claimed a credible fear of returning to Venezuela. Consequently, he was released from immigration custody on April 30, 2024, while his asylum claim awaited a decision.

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Jose Antonio Ibarra Background

Jose Antonio Ibarra was born in Aragua, Venezuela in 1997, grew up in San Sebastián alongside his brother, Diego. While specific details about his background are scarce, it is known that he migrated to the United States through unofficial channels.

After arriving in the country, Jose and his brother settled in Georgia. Through an exploration of Ibarra’s online activities, it was discovered that he maintains a Facebook account where he frequently shares photos with his family. Sources indicate that the woman often seen in these posts is his wife.

Jose Antonio Ibarra FAQs

Ques: How old is Jose Antonio Ibarra?

Ans: Jose Antonio is 26.

Ques: From where is Jose Antonio Ibarra?

Ans: He is originally from Venezuela but has been living in Athens, Georgia for many years.

Ques: Who is Jose Antonio Ibarra’s elder brother?

Ans: Diego Ibarra.