FBI Offers $1M Reward for Chicago Gang Fugitive Linked to Guard Soldier Murder
FBI adds Joseph Matos to Ten Most Wanted list, offering $1M reward for info on 2021 ambush murder of National Guardsman.
2 min read
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has added Joseph “Troubles” Matos to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list and is offering a $1 million reward for information leading to his arrest. Matos is wanted in connection with the 2021 ambush killing of 19-year-old Private First Class Chrys Carvajal, a member of the Illinois Army National Guard.
Tragic Ambush During Fourth of July Weekend
The fatal shooting occurred on July 3, 2021, in Chicago’s Belmont Cragin neighborhood. Carvajal, who had recently completed basic military training, was walking to his parked vehicle after attending a family party. Federal prosecutors allege that Matos, a reputed member of the Milwaukee Kings street gang, and co-defendant Gary “Gotti” Roberson targeted Carvajal for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Carvajal was shot and killed on the corner of Lockwood Avenue and Palmer Street in what investigators describe as an “unprovoked gang-related violence incident aimed at maintaining the gang’s turf dominance.” While Roberson was apprehended in 2024 and remains in federal custody, Matos has evaded law enforcement for years.
FBI Urges Public to Come Forward
Authorities suspect Matos is receiving assistance to remain hidden and believe he may still be lurking in the Chicago area, though he also maintains potential ties to Dallas and California. Federal investigators have released extensive physical descriptions of Matos, including his height, weight, and distinctive tattoos.
The drastic increase in the reward — which rose from $50,000 up to $1 million — reflects the severity of the federal charges and the commitment of investigators to deliver justice for the Carvajal family. Carvajal’s mother and sister have consistently held public memorials and community vigils, pleading for witnesses to overcome their fear of retaliation and speak out.
FBI officials stress that tips can be submitted completely anonymously through tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI, as they urge anyone who recognizes Matos to help resolve a tragedy that stole the life of a young service member.
The #FBI has added Joseph Matos to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List. He is #wanted for his alleged involvement in the murder of a National Guard member in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, on July 3, 2021. A reward of up to $1,000,000 is offered for… pic.twitter.com/OazaOp7gxE
Source: OANN
