Miami-Dade Suspect
In a series of alarming events that have sent shockwaves through Miami-Dade County, authorities have arrested 25-year-old Hungarian national Zsolt Zsolyomi in connection with the brutal murders of two elderly men. Investigations reveal that Zsolyomi specifically targeted older gay men, exploiting their vulnerabilities to commit heinous acts.
The Victims and Their Tragic Fates
The first known victim, 66-year-old Carlos Villaquiran, was discovered deceased in his Miami Beach apartment on November 21, 2024. Family members, concerned after Villaquiran failed to attend work, found him face down in his bathtub. The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be strangulation, noting internal trauma to both sides of the neck, a fractured rib, and a broken neck bone. Surveillance footage placed Zsolyomi at the scene during the time of the murder.
The second victim, 71-year-old Rodolfo Fernandez, was found on January 19, 2025, in Little Havana. His body was discovered in the driver’s seat of a crashed vehicle, with seatbelts wrapped around his neck. The Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a homicide by strangulation. Fingerprint evidence and surveillance videos linked Zsolyomi to this crime as well.
A Calculated Predator
Investigations uncovered that Zsolyomi, who entered the United States legally in 2023 but overstayed his visa, had been using the alias “Thomas Kray.” Text messages between Zsolyomi and Villaquiran from October 2024 revealed a tumultuous relationship, with Villaquiran accusing Zsolyomi of physical abuse and theft. In one exchange, Villaquiran sent a photo of a prominent injury to his right eye, to which Zsolyomi responded, “Sometimes I don’t know what to do when I’m drunk,” followed by multiple apologies.
Authorities believe that Zsolyomi meticulously selected his victims, focusing on elderly gay men, some with disabilities, whom he could easily overpower. Miami Beach Police Chief Wayne Jones described Zsolyomi as “the epitome of evil,” emphasizing his predatory nature and the calculated approach he employed to gain the trust of his victims before committing the murders.
The Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Zsolyomi was apprehended on February 19, 2025, in downtown Miami. During interrogation, he confessed to both murders. He now faces two counts of second-degree murder. At his initial court appearance, Judge Mindy S. Glazer denied him bond, and he remains in custody awaiting trial.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigations
The LGBTQ+ community in Miami-Dade County has been deeply affected by these events. Local organizations are collaborating with law enforcement to provide support to those impacted and to ensure the safety of community members. Authorities are also investigating the possibility of additional victims, as Zsolyomi had traveled to other regions, including Orlando. They urge anyone with pertinent information to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
