SALT LAKE CITY — A trial is set to begin next year for a man accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Gabriela Sifuentes Castilla, who was a prominent Hispanic radio host known publicly as Gaby Ramos. Manuel Omar Burciaga-Perea, 38, is scheduled to stand trial over a four-day period starting May 5, 2026.
Prosecutors allege that Burciaga-Perea shot and killed Sifuentes Castilla, 38, at her home on October 17, 2021. Charges were brought against him in November 2021, but his first court appearance did not occur until June 2023 due to his arrest in Mexico and subsequent extradition to the United States.
Burciaga-Perea faces multiple serious charges, including aggravated murder and aggravated burglary, both classified as first-degree felonies. Additional charges include domestic violence in front of a child and aggravated assault, categorized as third-degree felonies. At the time of the incident, Sifuentes Castilla’s 8-year-old daughter was present in the home.
In September 2024, Burciaga-Perea was ordered to go to trial following a preliminary hearing that featured testimony from law enforcement officers and Sifuentes Castilla’s sister, who witnessed the fatal encounter.
Testimony from that hearing indicated that Burciaga-Perea confronted Sifuentes Castilla at her apartment during the early morning hours. He reportedly took an object from the residence, claiming it was a ring, before departing. Shortly after, Sifuentes Castilla contacted 911 to report the altercation.
Approximately 15 minutes later, when Burciaga-Perea knocked on her door, Sifuentes Castilla asked who was there, expecting a police response. Receiving no answer, she recognized the voice outside as Burciaga-Perea and called 911 a second time. A recording of this call captured her distress just moments before chaos ensued in the background.
Testimony revealed that Sifuentes Castilla was shot multiple times, suffering injuries to her chest and head.
Gabriela Sifuentes Castilla was not only recognized for her work at La Mas Picosita (KMRI 1550 AM), a local Spanish-language radio station, but was also cherished within the Hispanic community for her contributions and outreach.
This tragic incident underscores a broader issue surrounding domestic violence, emphasizing the need for support systems for victims and awareness of the dangers they may face.
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