KS most-wanted suspect caught in Mexico

 

A long-sought fugitive, wanted for a 2014 home invasion and murder, is in federal custody after arrest and extradition by Mexican authorities.

Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Craig Beam said in a press release federal authorities tracked Bryan L. Bridges, 20, to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, leading to Bridges’ Feb. 28 arrest.

An intensive manhunt begun immediately after the slaying of Pittsburg State student Taylor Thomas heated up in December 2015. Federal and state authorities worked with the Pittsburg Police Department to track leads on Bridges’ whereabouts. Beam said Bridges had “personal ties” in Iowa, Colorado and Mexico.

Bridges faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated burglary and conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary. He is the last of five people with involvement in the 2014 incident to be arrested.

“The arrest of Bryan Bridges is a testament to the cooperation between Federal, State, and local law enforcement including the Pittsburg Police Department and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation,” said U.S. Marshal Ronald Miller as quoted in the press release. “The tips and information received from the public were also crucial in helping us locate and arrest this malicious fugitive. I am greatly appreciative of their support and proud of the dedicated men and women who tirelessly worked on this case to ensure Bridges faces justice for his heinous crimes.”