College Park, Maryland, January 19, 2026
Four individuals, including three adults from Washington, D.C., and a juvenile from Hyattsville, have been charged with the murder of 14-year-old Jefferson Amaya-Ayala. His remains were found in Indian Creek Stream Valley Park, prompting a multi-agency investigation. The authorities suspect the crime may be gang-related, and all suspects are currently in custody. The victim was reported missing earlier, and investigators believe he was lured to the park before being killed. Police urge anyone with information to come forward.
Four Suspects Charged in Murder of Missing DC Teen Found in College Park Park
COLLEGE PARK, MD – Four individuals, including three adults from Washington, D.C., and a 17-year-old from Hyattsville, have been charged in connection with the murder of 14-year-old Jefferson Amaya-Ayala. His remains were discovered in Indian Creek Stream Valley Park in College Park, Maryland, on November 3, 2025. The Prince George’s County Police Department announced the charges on January 18, 2026.
Details of the Investigation
Amaya-Ayala was reported missing on August 2, 2025. Investigators believe he was lured to the park and murdered on the same day. The suspects have been identified as:
- Jose Merlos-Majano, 18, of Washington, D.C.
- Alan Josai Garcia-Padilla, 21, of Washington, D.C.
- William Cuellar Gutierrez, 19, of Washington, D.C.
- 17-year-old juvenile, from Hyattsville, Maryland (name withheld)
All four suspects are currently in custody and have been charged with murder. The investigation suggests the crime may be gang-related, but the exact motive remains under investigation.
Background Information
On November 3, 2025, during a search for a missing person, human remains were found in Indian Creek Stream Valley Park. The remains were later identified as belonging to Amaya-Ayala. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled his death a homicide caused by multiple injuries. The investigation was conducted jointly with the FBI Baltimore Field Office.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to contact the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512 or Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Jefferson Amaya-Ayala, 14-year-old from Washington, D.C. |
| Suspects | Jose Merlos-Majano (18), Alan Josai Garcia-Padilla (21), William Cuellar Gutierrez (19), and a 17-year-old juvenile from Hyattsville, Maryland |
| Charges | Murder |
| Location of Remains | Indian Creek Stream Valley Park, College Park, Maryland |
| Date of Discovery | November 3, 2025 |
| Investigation | Joint effort with the FBI Baltimore Field Office |
| Possible Motive | Gang-related, under investigation |
| Public Assistance | Contact Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512 or Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the suspects charged in the murder of Jefferson Amaya-Ayala?
The suspects are:
- Jose Merlos-Majano, 18, of Washington, D.C.
- Alan Josai Garcia-Padilla, 21, of Washington, D.C.
- William Cuellar Gutierrez, 19, of Washington, D.C.
- 17-year-old juvenile, from Hyattsville, Maryland (name withheld)
What charges have been filed against the suspects?
All four suspects have been charged with murder in connection with the death of Jefferson Amaya-Ayala.
When and where were Jefferson Amaya-Ayala’s remains found?
His remains were discovered in Indian Creek Stream Valley Park in College Park, Maryland, on November 3, 2025.
What is known about the circumstances of Jefferson Amaya-Ayala’s death?
Investigators believe he was lured to the park and murdered on August 2, 2025. The crime appears to be gang-related, but the exact motive is still under investigation.
How can the public assist in the investigation?
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512 or Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).
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