WINTER PARK, Fla. – Detectives are searching for the whereabouts of a wanted gang member who has been linked to Central Florida, according to the FBI.
In a release on Wednesday, investigators asked for the public’s help in finding the gang member — identified as Ricky Vargas, 36 — after he was indicted on first-degree murder charges.
Investigators said that Vargas, a member of the “Latin Kings” gang, fatally stabbed a man at a bar in Garfield, New Jersey, on Feb. 4, 2024. However, Vargas now faces a federal charge of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
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The release shows that Vargas’ last known residence was in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. He also has connections to Chicago, Illinois, and Winter Park in Florida, though no details were released about his ties to these places.
“He does not have a valid driver’s license and is known to use ride-share apps and mass transit to get around,” the release reads. “He is typically around 5′5, 200 lbs, with numerous tattoos on his arms and hands. He typically has facial hair and wears glasses.”
In addition, FBI officials said that Vargas is considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone with information on Vargas’ whereabouts is urged to call the FBI at (800) CALL-FBI, or the FBI Newark Field Office at (973) 792-3000.
Alternatively, tips can be made online at the FBI’s website here.
Tips resulting in an arrest could be eligible for a reward of up to $15,000.