The U.S. Marshals Service is actively searching for Geovanni Otero, a 29-year-old man with a significant criminal history, in connection with the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Melody Rivera. Rivera's body was found buried in a shallow grave in Philadelphia's Fox Chase neighborhood, and her death has been ruled a homicide by violence.
Otero, who has been described as a 'lifelong criminal' since the age of 12, is the subject of a $25,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Clark emphasized the urgency of apprehending Otero, stating that he is a dangerous individual who needs to be removed from society.
The motive behind Rivera's killing remains unclear, but authorities believe that Otero had a dispute with her prior to her disappearance on October 31. Otero, who recently served time in state prison for a firearms offense, ceased communication with his parole officer following Rivera's death.
Rivera's family is devastated by her loss, describing her as a loving and kind individual who leaves behind an 11-year-old daughter. They have been actively involved in the search for justice, expressing their grief and disbelief over the tragic circumstances of Rivera's death.
Otero, also known by the alias 'Gozer,' is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 175 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes, and distinctive tattoos on his hands and behind his left ear. His last known address was in the 5800 block of N. Park Avenue in Philadelphia.
The U.S. Marshals Service Violent Crimes Fugitive Task Force is leading the investigation to apprehend Otero for the murder and outstanding state parole warrants. Authorities urge anyone with information on Otero's whereabouts to come forward and assist in bringing him to justice.
