Reading, Pennsylvania — A horrific crime investigation has uncovered a chain of murders linked to a single suspect, leading authorities to consider capital punishment. Detectives initially focused on the death of Junior Cabrera-Colon, whose body was found in a remote area near Baer Park. As the investigation unfolded, it became clear that the tragedy extended to Cabrera-Colon’s wife, Geraldina Peguero-Mancebo, and their 1-year-old son, Jeyden Peguero.
Jose L. Rodriguez, 61, of Centre Park, has been charged with first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse. This announcement followed a previous charge for Cabrera-Colon’s murder, which occurred on September 13. Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams described the sequence of events as “beyond comprehension” at a press conference, highlighting the inhumane nature of the crimes.
Investigators believe Rodriguez had a prior connection to Peguero-Mancebo, as he worked with her at a local warehouse and aided her in obtaining an apartment. After retrieving video footage and conducting interviews, law enforcement tracked Rodriguez’s movements leading up to the killings. They established that Peguero-Mancebo was last seen entering Rodriguez’s vehicle shortly before she and her son were reported missing, raising concerns among relatives.
As the investigation progressed, Rodriguez initially provided mixed accounts to detectives but later confessed to shooting Cabrera-Colon during an altercation. Authorities stated that he claimed the victim’s gun had fallen during the struggle. Afterward, he reportedly disposed of Cabrera-Colon’s body in the victim’s car and abandoned it near the park.
The gruesome discovery of Peguero-Mancebo’s body followed shortly after; she had also been shot in the head. Tragically, Jeyden’s body was found the next day, submerged in still water nearby. An autopsy revealed he had drowned, intensifying the outrage over the case. Adams lamented the unprecedented cruelty exhibited in these killings, emphasizing the need to confront such violence in communities.
Detectives have praised the collaborative work of various law enforcement agencies, which played a crucial role in solving the case. Adams expressed gratitude for the dedication shown by officers throughout the investigation, noting that their swift actions likely prevented further tragedy.
As prosecutors weigh the possibility of pursuing the death penalty against Rodriguez, he remains in custody at the Berks County Jail without bail. The community’s outcry for justice underscores the profound impact this case has had on local residents, who now grapple with the haunting details of these shocking events.