Video Released of Suspects Wanted in 2022 Little Village Homicide of Army Veteran
Investigation Update
Chicago police have released a video of a suspect wanted for the 2022 slaying of an Army veteran who was walking his dog at the time. Jason Benitez, 30, was walking his dog at around 1:15 a.m. on the morning of November 12th in the 3400 block of West 30th Street, just a few blocks away from his residence.
Surveillance Footage
The video, which is 1:05 minutes long, shows the suspects. One of them appeared to be wearing an orange hoodie at the time of the shooting. The video begins in a convenience store showing the suspect in a black Bass Pro Shops hoodie. The man appears to be heavier set with black-framed glasses on. In surveillance footage presumably after the homicide, that suspect is wearing a bright orange hoodie and blue jeans.
Second Suspect
Images of the second suspect are less clear. He was wearing black clothes with white shoes on at the time and police believe both are between the ages of 17-25.
Background on the Victim
In 2020, Benitez returned home from a tour in South Korea with the goal of finding love and starting a family in his hometown. “He wanted to start a family,” father Alfredo Benitez told WGN News in 2022. “If he goes again (on another tour), it’ll waste four more years of his life to try to become a loving father.”
Personal Life
Benitez loved to cook and just got a job at a steakhouse downtown at the time of the homicide. “He loved his dog — it was like his baby,” father Alfredo Benitez said. “He didn’t deserve this.” His beloved dog ended up walking back to home and a neighbor, who knew the dog, was able to identify Benitez as the victim to police.
Investigation and Reward
Up to a $15,000 reward is being offered for an arrest and conviction. No suspects are in custody. Anyone with information can leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com.
Conclusion
The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The community is still reeling from the senseless loss of life, and the family is seeking justice for their loved one.
FAQs
* What is the reward for an arrest and conviction?
+ Up to $15,000
* What is the age range of the suspects?
+ Between 17-25 years old
* What is the description of the first suspect?
+ Wearing a black Bass Pro Shops hoodie and black-framed glasses
* What is the description of the second suspect?
+ Wearing black clothes with white shoes
* How can I leave an anonymous tip?
+ Visit cpdtip.com
