Family Seeks Justice for Emilio Valdez’s Murder

Tiffany Valdez recalls the chilling moment she heard sounds like gunfire, only to later discover her brother had been murdered. On June 7, 2018, Emilio Valdez left his mother’s home in Pontiac and got into a parked Pontiac Grand Prix. Soon after, police reported that he was shot inside the vehicle. At 20 years old, he suffered gunshot wounds to the chest and head before being thrown into a lake.

Emilio’s story gained attention on Investigation Discovery’s series “Bodies in the Water.” The series delves into murders where water bodies play a key role in the investigations. Each episode emphasizes how forensic evidence helps solve such crimes.

Tiffany Valdez shared her painful experience. “I heard the gunshots,” she recalled. She ran outside, witnessing the car speeding away with loud music. She had just spoken with her brother that night. He had called her after spending time with friends, asking her to open the door since he didn’t have his key.

Despite frantic attempts to contact him throughout the night and morning, they discovered through social media that a body had been found in Osmun Lake. Reluctantly, she and her sister identified Emilio’s body.

Growing up in Pontiac, Emilio belonged to a large, supportive family. Known for his friendly nature, he formed bonds easily. A standout athlete, Emilio was celebrated for his kindness. Tiffany recounted an instance when Emilio gave a classmate in need his new Jordans, returning home barefoot but thrilled to help.

Emilio’s case was spotlighted in “The Deep End of Envy,” the premiere episode of “Bodies in the Water,” which airs on Tuesdays at 10:00 pm.

During his last months, Emilio started associating with a new group described as rougher. On the day of his disappearance, he had a bag of marijuana and a shoebox. His usual presence on Snapchat went silent that morning.

Investigators discovered Emilio’s bloodied clothing near Osmun Lake, evidence of violence. Tire tracks and drag marks were present; benches appeared damaged by a vehicle. His body was found in the lake, suggesting he’d been dragged to the water.

Detective Dawn Mullins from Oakland County Sheriff’s Office spoke about the difficulties they faced initially. “It was tough,” Tiffany said. “Years passed before an arrest was made, but we never gave up on Emilio.” Detective Kevin Thomas concluded Emilio was shot and drowned, causing deep pain for the family.

The plot thickened when a bloody Grand Prix with Emilio’s phone and a spent shell was found submerged. It had been reported stolen by Guadalupe Maria Davila-Rodriguez. Her son, Angel Jose Alvarez, who borrowed the car, had a criminal background. He denied involvement when questioned.

Years went by without resolution. In 2022, fresh detectives revisited the case. Emilio’s Snapchat history revealed a message, “You comiin?!,” sent shortly before he left home, linking it to Alvarez. Phone records indicated Alvarez contacted family members post-murder.

The investigation showed Emilio had been lured by Alvarez. Alvarez’s mother was told to report the Grand Prix as stolen after receiving her son’s call.

In the episode, jealousy was suggested as a possible motive. Emilio’s charm and friendships, especially with women, might have stirred resentment. Though prosecutors hadn’t identified jealousy as a motive, Emilio’s sister, Sara Dickerson, believed it was a factor.

Angel Jose Alvarez was convicted of second-degree murder in June 2024, receiving a lengthy prison sentence. His brother and mother faced lesser charges for lying to police. Emilio Valdez’s family still wrestles with unanswered questions. “Angel never admitted what he did,” Tiffany expressed. “We hope he owns up and turns his life around.”

Emilio’s story stands as a cautionary tale. “Be careful who you call a friend,” Tiffany advises. Despite the pain, the family hopes their pursuit of justice encourages others in similar situations.