Police search for "Vampie," eye links to Mexican drug trade in Westminster murder
denverpost.com
The Denver Post
By Caitlin Gibbons
Posted: 09/14/2011 10:16:22 AM MDT
Updated: 09/14/2011 10:51:00 AM MDT

Westminster police are investigating a homicide they believe is connected with an illegal drug trade in Mexico.

A man was found dead in the the Toscana Apartment Complex in the 8400 block of Sheridan Boulevard on September 6 after police received an anonymous tip. The name of the victim is not being released and the cause of death is still under investigation. They are working with the Mexican Consulate to confirm his identity and notify next of kin in Mexico.

"We think the killer and deceased party are illegal immigrants as part of illegal drug cartel out of Mexico," said Investigator Trevor Materasso with the Westminster Police Department.

The investigation is "a slow process dealing with illegals on both sides,"


Jose Manuel Martinez-Adame, also known as "Vampie," is wanted by police in connection to a murder in Westminster. (Westminster Police Department | handout)

Materasso said. Police do not know what type of drug the victim and suspect were trafficking.

Police have a suspect, Jose Manuel Martinez-Adame, and an arrest warrant has been issued out of Adams County for first-degree murder.

Martinez-Adame has been arrested multiple times in the United States and is known to police by eight aliases.

He is known by the nickname "Vampie" and has either had his canine teeth extended or sharpened, Materasso said.

Police believe Martinez-Adame may still be in the Denver metro area or have traveled to California or returned to Mexico.

Westminster Police are working with the Mexican Consulate, United States Boarder Patrol, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the FBI.

Anyone with information about his current whereabouts is asked to call 911. A reward of up to $2,000 is being offered through Crime Stoppers for information leading to his apprehension. You can provide information anonymously by calling 720-913-STOP (7867).

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