SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Gabriel Calixto, 27, the ex-boyfriend wanted for the 2023 murder of Emma Shafer, has been captured in Mexico after two years on the run. Authorities from the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office, Springfield Police Department, and U.S. Marshal’s Service announced the arrest on Thursday.
Shafer, 24, was stabbed to death in her Springfield apartment on July 11, 2023. Police were alerted to the crime by Calixto’s sister, who expressed concern that he might have harmed Shafer. Officers found her deceased upon arrival. Calixto was quickly named a suspect and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated domestic battery, among other charges, following a grand jury indictment.
Despite these charges, Calixto evaded arrest and was believed to have fled the country. The case gained renewed national attention in May when U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem visited Springfield, using the case to criticize the state’s immigration policies. However, Springfield Police disputed claims that Calixto was in the United States at the time, and Shafer’s family condemned the political use of their daughter’s death.
Months later, Calixto was located and arrested in Mexico. Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser confirmed that his office will collaborate with federal agencies to coordinate Calixto’s extradition back to the U.S. He also expressed gratitude to the Department of Justice, ICE, and U.S. Attorney’s Offices for their assistance in bringing Calixto into custody.
