INGLEWOOD, CA – Two men accused of killing Juan Miguel Sanchez, a good Samaritan in Los Angeles County, were found to have been living in the United States illegally, according to local authorities. Sanchez was shot and killed on February 25 in Inglewood while attempting to intervene in a theft of a catalytic converter from a neighbor’s vehicle.
The suspects, identified by Englewood police as Wilbur Alberto Rabanales and Jose Christian Saravia Sanchez, were captured on surveillance footage as they committed the crime. Both men were arrested last Thursday.
Rabanales, a Guatemalan national, has a lengthy criminal history, with at least 15 arrests in recent years. His charges include gun violations, grand theft, burglary, and drug offenses. His criminal record also reveals multiple arrests for stealing catalytic converters, as well as charges of conspiracy, driving under the influence, and possession of burglary tools and methamphetamine.
Saravia Sanchez has also faced legal troubles, having been arrested over a dozen times for similar offenses, including grand theft, gun charges, drug possession, and burglary. The suspects were taken into custody at a motel located approximately 15 miles east of Inglewood.
Sanchez’s family is reeling from the loss. His sister shared that he would have turned 49 on April 4. She described him as a man of faith who never missed Sunday Mass and was actively involved in his church community. He had recently been promoted at work, contributing to efforts to clean up after the Palisades fire.
As the primary breadwinner for his family, Sanchez had encouraged his wife to leave her job to focus on her health after being diagnosed with cancer. His untimely death leaves his wife and two sons facing an uncertain future.
The investigation into the case is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather more information. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of a man remembered for his generosity and dedication to his family and faith.