An alleged MS-13 gang member in the U.S. illegally has been charged in the shooting deaths of a Virginia couple, Loudoun County officials reported. Marlyn Medrano-Ortiz, 18, faces charges of second-degree murder and firearm use in a felony for the August murders of Mijal Conejero-Romera and Diego Alexander Wollett.
Authorities responded to a call on August 28 about an argument in the Ridgetop Circle area of Sterling, Virginia. When they arrived, officers discovered the couple with gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save them, they died shortly after being transported to a hospital. Medrano-Ortiz was later apprehended in Alexandria’s Mount Vernon area.
Did y'all know, a mere few miles from downtown DC is the third largest concentration of MS-13 in the country? Yup. Right here in Loudoun County, Virginia.
Ask a local about it? Clueless. Very Stepford. pic.twitter.com/bdEpCvmh94
— 🇺🇸🍊🧡southerngalpal 🧡🍊🇺🇸 (@belleofva) October 28, 2024
Sheriff Mike Chapman, who has been outspoken against gang activity, particularly MS-13, voiced his opposition to the gang’s influence in local communities. “MS-13 is an El Salvador-based gang that uses intimidation, crime, and violence as tools of the trade,” Chapman said. He noted that while gang activity had previously subsided, recent incidents suggest a resurgence.
Chapman has been a vocal advocate for keeping communities safe from gang violence, particularly as MS-13’s presence grows. “There should be no safe place for them here,” he added, underscoring the importance of vigilance against gang activity.
Northern Virginia has been overrun by members of MS-13 and Tren de Aragua. That's one reason violent crime in our communities has risen 200-300% since 2019.
If you elect Jerry Torres to Congress, he'll stop the invasion.https://t.co/kVXcVspXsB
— Jerry Torres for Congress (VA-8) (@jerryuscongress) October 28, 2024
The Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation to assess whether more individuals were involved. Medrano-Ortiz’s preliminary hearing is set for December 5, and the case has prompted calls for stronger immigration and gang prevention measures in local communities.
