HARTFORD, CT – The investigation surrounding the tragic death of Edgar Josué Chiche Martínez, a Hartford teenager found deceased on the side of Pope Park Highway, has led to charges against his two cousins. Authorities were alerted to the grim discovery Saturday morning, which transpired just days before Martínez would have turned 19.

Upon receiving the call, Hartford Police swiftly descended on the scene and initiated an investigation, learning that the body had sustained apparent gunshot wounds.

The investigation revealed that the victim’s body had been in the location for roughly 24 hours before being discovered. Investigators traced the incident back to an apartment on Magnolia Street, where they believe the fatal events took place.

Family members say Martínez resided with his cousins in the Magnolia Street apartment. As the investigation unfolded, police identified and charged two suspects: 21-year-old Sender Soto-Veliz, facing charges of hindering prosecution and tampering with evidence, and an unnamed 17-year-old, charged with murder and tampering with evidence.

Soto-Veliz is suspected of aiding in the disposal of the teenager’s body, according to police, and is being held on a $500,000 bond. The 17-year-old, whose case is expected to be moved to adult court, remains unidentified due to his age.

Those closest to Martínez described him as someone who steered clear of trouble. His aunt, Verónica Imelda Martínez Mayen, expressed hopes for both earthly and divine justice, while his sister, Nimsa Martínez, cherished his memory as that of a beautiful person who always looked out for her.

The investigation took a significant turn Saturday evening when police tracked down the suspects driving in Park Terrace. Community Patrol Division officers, alongside the Vice and Narcotics Division, successfully apprehended the occupants of the suspect vehicle, bringing them into custody.

The case continues to unravel, shedding light on the circumstances that led to such a traumatic event. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, responsible for further forensic analysis, has yet to provide additional public statements on the case.