A dual U.S.-Salvadoran citizen from California has been extradited to El Salvador accused of murdering a woman in front of their toddler son. The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Thursday the extradition of Michael Alejandro Castillo Murga, 27, of Beaumont, California, to face charges of aggravated femicide and imperfect homicide.
According to Salvadoran authorities, Castillo Murga picked up Melvi Fernanda Nájera Quezada, 23, along with their son from her mother’s home on January 31, 2019. It was believed he intended to start living together as a family. However, authorities allege he killed Nájera Quezada and abandoned their child near her body. Her remains were discovered near a highway the following day. An autopsy revealed she died from severe bleeding caused by cuts to her neck and other wounds inflicted with a plastic knife.
This extradition is notable as it marks the first time the U.S. has surrendered an American citizen to face prosecution for crimes committed in El Salvador.
Investigators connected Castillo Murga to the crime using cellphone location data and witness testimonies. Authorities reported he sent a photograph to his girlfriend showing bloodstains on his face and neck. Further charges were extended to Castillo Murga’s grandmother and a lawyer, who allegedly helped conceal evidence. They reportedly arranged for cleaning the blood from Castillo Murga’s vehicle using water, car shampoo, and vinegar, but not all traces of blood were removed.
After the incident, Castillo Murga fled to Guatemala with help from his grandmother and lawyer before eventually entering the U.S. Authorities arrested him in October 2024 following an extradition request from El Salvador. Castillo Murga contested his extradition in federal court, but his petition was rejected in November 2025. A subsequent request to halt his transfer was denied in September 2026.
U.S. Marshals Service for the Central District of California played a role in this case, assisting in his arrest and transferring him to Salvadoran custody.
The Secretary of State ultimately authorized Castillo Murga’s surrender, and he was transported into Salvadoran custody on Wednesday for prosecution.
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