On October 14, 2024, a Venezuelan national, Sherles Gregorio Machado-Hernandez, was charged with the capital murder of Francis Anseume-Corredor and Bryan Flores Alvarez in Texas. The victims were found deceased in a vehicle with gunshot wounds on Burton Drive in Austin. An Amber Alert was issued for Anseume-Corredor’s three children, who were initially unaccounted for but were later found safe after their mother’s death. Machado-Hernandez, described as the “common-law husband” of Anseume-Corredor, is the father of two of the children. The couple was living together at the time of the incident.
Security camera footage captured the moment when Machado-Hernandez allegedly shot Anseume-Corredor and Alvarez outside the latter’s apartment building around 3:30 AM. Following the discovery of the bodies, an Amber Alert was issued for the children, who were subsequently located unharmed with Machado-Hernandez’s brother. The suspect attempted to evade law enforcement by changing vehicles but was ultimately found hiding in the back of his brother’s black Kia SUV. Despite being described as “armed and dangerous,” he was taken into custody without incident.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis condemned the crime, calling Machado-Hernandez a “coward” for killing the mother of his children and leaving them motherless. The suspect is currently being held at Travis County Jail on a $2 million bail. This incident marked the 51st and 52nd homicides in Austin in 2024. The police department did not respond to inquiries regarding Machado-Hernandez’s immigration status, raising questions about his legal status in the country.
The tragic double homicide has shocked the local community and sparked concerns about domestic violence and the safety of immigrant families. The swift action of law enforcement in locating the suspect and ensuring the well-being of the children has been commended. The impact of the loss on the victims’ families, the children, and the broader community is a reminder of the devastating consequences of violence.
As the investigation continues, details about the motive behind the crime and any prior history of violence or disputes between the suspect and the victims may emerge. The legal proceedings against Machado-Hernandez will shed light on the events leading up to the tragic incident and seek justice for the victims. The case highlights the need for robust support systems for victims of domestic violence and the importance of addressing mental health issues that may lead to such acts of violence. The community will come together to mourn the loss, seek justice, and work towards preventing similar tragedies in the future.
