AUSTIN (KXAN) — In a shocking turn of events, the Austin Police Department has revealed a DNA link between two separate homicide investigations, spanning six years and crossing county lines. This discovery has left both law enforcement and the community reeling as they search for answers and justice for the victims involved.
The DNA link was uncovered when investigators re-released video footage showing a suspect walking with 34-year-old Alyssa Ann Rivera, who was tragically found murdered in an abandoned house in June. This breakthrough has shed new light on the case and has opened up the possibility of connecting it to another unsolved homicide from 2018 in Bastrop County.
On August 7, APD announced that DNA evidence had linked the suspect in Rivera’s case to the unsolved murder of 28-year-old Alba Aviles, who was found dead in her car along a Bastrop County road in 2018. Aviles had reportedly left Club Caribe in Austin the night she was killed, a few miles away from where Rivera’s body was discovered this summer. The connection between these two cases has raised concerns about a potential serial killer operating in the area.
Sgt. Anthony Sexton of the Austin Police Department emphasized the extensive efforts being made to gather evidence and pursue leads in both cases. He mentioned, “We’re comparing a lot of the evidence that we have with their case. So they went back and they tried to capture whatever cell records that they could, any sort of electronic evidence, physical evidence.” Despite having DNA evidence, law enforcement has been unable to identify a suspect due to the lack of a match in the national database, a rare occurrence in cases of this nature.
The revelation of the DNA link has had a profound impact on the loved ones of the victims, particularly Alyssa Ann Rivera’s mother, who spoke to KXAN about the heartbreaking loss of her daughter. She expressed the immense pain and struggle she has faced since learning of her daughter’s murder, stating, “Days are not easy. Waking up every day is not easy. We will never stop trying to find out who did this to you [Alyssa]… ever.”
Despite her grief and fear for her own safety, Rivera’s mother wanted to share the kind-hearted nature of her daughter with the world. She described Alyssa as having “the most loving soul” and being willing to help anyone in need. This tragic loss has left a void in her family that can never be filled, but she remains hopeful that justice will be served for both Alyssa and Alba Aviles.
As news of the DNA connection continues to spread, Rivera’s mother is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. She pleaded, “Please, if you know anything, just reach out. Don’t let this happen to somebody else.” The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help them navigate this difficult time and seek closure for their beloved daughter.
The community at large has been deeply affected by the revelations of these linked cases, prompting a renewed sense of vigilance and awareness. The possibility of a serial killer on the loose has sparked concerns among residents and law enforcement alike, leading to increased efforts to ensure the safety of the community.
In the wake of these developments, it is crucial for authorities to continue their diligent efforts in investigating these heinous crimes and bringing those responsible to justice. The victims and their families deserve closure, and the community deserves to feel safe knowing that those who commit such atrocities will be held accountable for their actions.
As the search for the suspect intensifies and the investigation unfolds, the importance of community involvement and support cannot be overstated. By coming together and standing united against violence and senseless acts of cruelty, we can work towards a safer and more just society for all. Let us honor the memories of Alyssa Ann Rivera and Alba Aviles by seeking justice and standing up against those who seek to harm others.
