Houston, Texas – A man has been taken into custody and charged with murder after the body of a 21-year-old woman was discovered on Tuesday in the trunk of her own car in southwest Houston. The victim, identified as Idania Maria Campos Muñoz, had been reported missing by her family. Houston Police Department (HPD) revealed that the suspect, 19-year-old Ariel Cruz, was the victim’s ex-boyfriend who had confessed to his involvement in her death. Court documents indicate that Cruz shot and killed Idania because she ended their relationship.
According to authorities, Cruz admitted to shooting the victim in a shopping center before placing her body in the trunk of her vehicle and abandoning it in the Meyerland area, not far from his residence. Shockingly, Cruz even feigned concern during the search for Idania conducted by her family. To the victim’s sister, Jennifer Campos Muñoz, it appeared as if he already knew about the tragic outcome. “He even hugged us and said ‘I’m sorry’ and ‘Everything will be alright,’ … like if he knew already,” she stated.
Family members disclosed that Cruz had visited their home as recently as the previous weekend, suggesting that Idania may have met up with him despite no longer desiring a romantic relationship. Described as a Lamar High School graduate attending Houston Community College, Idania was known for her intelligence and humor, always willing to lend a helping hand.
HPD revealed that Idania had been reported missing by her family on Tuesday morning after she failed to return home following the drop-off of her sisters at school. Hours later, her body was tragically found in the trunk of a vehicle on Indigo Street. Concerned friends and family traced her last known location using her cell phone, leading them to the discovery of the locked car. After authorities initially left the scene, loved ones proceeded to knock on doors, inquire about surveillance footage, and ultimately called a locksmith to gain access to the vehicle. It wasn’t until the trunk was opened by breaking a window that they made the devastating discovery of Idania’s lifeless body.
The loss of Idania has left her family shattered, as they express disbelief that Cruz could commit such a heinous act. They hope that he will face appropriate justice for his crime. Cruz’s bond has been set at $500,000.
Domestic and family violence rates have been alarmingly high in the Houston area, and it is crucial for victims to seek assistance and support. Victims can reach out discreetly for help through organizations such as The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).