Guárico: Body of young woman found in hotel; ex-partner sought

The body of 24-year-old María José Machado Ríos was discovered in an advanced state of decomposition in a rear hallway of a hotel in El Socorro, Guárico. The discovery was made by hotel staff following a strong odor emanating from the area near the guest rooms.

Investigations indicate that Machado Ríos entered the establishment on Wednesday, accompanied by her former partner, Cristian de Jesús Hernández Díaz. Hotel records show that Hernández left the premises early Thursday morning, claiming he needed to attend to a personal matter, and did not return.

Authorities, including detectives from the Cuerpo de Investigaciones Científicas, Penales y Criminalísticas (Cicpc), have identified Hernández Díaz as the primary suspect. The victim had previously filed a formal complaint against him in July following an incident of domestic violence. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of death and to locate the suspect.