International Justice Prevails: Dale City Triple Murder Suspect Apprehended in El Salvador

Barahona Quinonez was wanted for three counts of murder, one count of aggravated malicious wounding, four counts of use of a firearm.Photo byPrince William County Police

In a significant breakthrough, authorities have arrested Donald Antonio Barahona Quinonez, the prime suspect in a triple murder case that shocked Dale City in May 2023. Barahona Quinonez, 28, had been on the run since the shooting incident that left three individuals dead and one injured. The arrest was made on January 22 by the Special Forces of the El Salvador National Civil Police, as confirmed by Prince William County police Lt. Jonathan Perok.

The Dale City community was rattled on May 26, 2023, when police responded to a call in the 14700 block of Birchdale Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered 37-year-old Edwin Geovanny Salermon, one of the victims, outside the house. Unfortunately, Salermon was pronounced dead at the scene. Further exploration inside the residence revealed three additional victims, including 41-year-old Luis Alonzo Salgado-Rivas, who succumbed to his injuries later that day. Another victim, 23-year-old Kevin Josue Vallecillo Mendoza, passed away the following day. Miraculously, a 21-year-old man emerged as the lone survivor of the tragic shooting.

The investigation unveiled that a gathering was taking place inside the residence when an attendee brandished a firearm, resulting in the indiscriminate firing that claimed the lives of four men. The alleged shooter, identified as Barahona Quinonez, fled the scene along with others present in the house.

Now in custody, efforts are underway to extradite Barahona Quinonez back to the United States. Prince William County police are collaborating with federal partners and authorities in El Salvador to ensure a smooth and swift extradition process.

This arrest provides a glimmer of hope for the grieving community, offering a step towards justice for the victims and their families. As the legal proceedings unfold, the Dale City community can find solace in the fact that law enforcement is tirelessly working to bring closure to this tragic chapter in their town's history.