Two men, including a 17-year-old cousin, face murder charges in the death of Edgar Josué Chiche Martínez, whose body was found wrapped in a blanket on the side of a Hartford highway.

The murder of 18-year-old Edgar Josué Chiche Martínez has sent shockwaves through the Hartford community, sparking discussions about safety and violence among youth. Charged with his murder, his cousin and accomplice are alleged to have acted out of financial motivations, raising concerns about the influence of economic desperation on local crime. As Martínez's family mourns their loss and seeks justice, their tragedy underscores the urgent need for community interventions to prevent such senseless violence and protect the lives of young residents.

Martínez was shot inside the apartment he shared with his cousins. Following the incident, police launched an investigation that eventually led to the arrest of two suspects involved in the crime.

The two individuals charged are a 17-year-old male cousin of Martínez and 21-year-old Sender Soto-Veliz. The cousin has been charged with murder and tampering with evidence, while Soto-Veliz faces charges of hindering prosecution and also tampering with evidence.

Authorities indicate that the shooting took place on Saturday, and the investigation revealed that the motive for the attack may be financially driven. Martínez's family believes that the crime was motivated by money, which raises questions regarding the pressures that may contribute to youth violence in the area.

Martínez was set to turn 19 on the Thursday following his death, marking a life cut short just days before his birthday. His family, who are currently in Guatemala, are coordinating efforts to transport his body back home for burial, fulfilling their hopes for his final resting place.

Described by family members as a caring and friendly individual, Martínez graduated from Hartford High School with aspirations for a bright future. His aunt expressed the family’s hope for earthly justice, mourning the loss of a young life that had touched many. 'He was a beautiful person,' she stated, highlighting his positive impact on those around him.

The details surrounding Martínez's murder further emphasize the anxiety felt by families in Hartford as they confront the realities of violence in their communities. Family members reported that they began to worry when Martínez failed to show up for work on Thursday and Friday, a behavior that was uncharacteristic of him.

Martínez's death marks yet another incident contributing to the discussion around safety in Hartford. Law enforcement agencies continue to grapple with rising violence among young people, with community leaders urging for interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of such crimes.

Following the arrest of the suspects, the investigation continues to unfold. Two young men have been charged in the murder of Edgar Josué Chiche Martínez. Martínez's family believes the murder was motivated by money. Martínez was shot inside the apartment he shared with his cousins, and his body was found wrapped in a blanket on the side of Pope Park Highway in Hartford, about 24 hours after he was shot. The community remains concerned about the safety and security of its youth.

As the legal process unfolds, Martínez’s family and friends are left to navigate their grief and advocate for justice. They reflect on the cherished memories of a young man who had a promising future ahead of him, and now are left with unanswered questions regarding his sudden and violent demise.