In a heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case out of Las Vegas, a 24-year-old man named Julio Machado Vasquez has been arrested after allegedly shooting his girlfriend, Selene Perez, in the back of the head and then driving around with her lifeless body for nearly two hours. The incident took place on January 19 and has shaken many who knew the couple—or simply heard the tragic details.
What Happened?
According to investigators, Julio claimed the shooting was an accident. He told police he and Selene had been fighting in the car that morning. He said she tried to grab a gun he had with him and during the struggle, it went off, hitting her in the head.
But instead of stopping the car and calling for help, Julio kept driving. For close to two hours, he reportedly drove around with her body next to him in the passenger seat. At one point, he called a friend and admitted what had happened, asking for help in hiding her body.
The friend, clearly shaken, told him to go to the hospital or call 911. Julio didn’t. He said he was scared there might be cameras and didn’t want to get caught.
The Chase and the Crash
Eventually, police spotted Julio’s blue Mustang. When they tried to pull him over, he sped away, reaching speeds of 70 miles per hour and running red lights. The chase ended when he crashed into another car, injuring the two people inside.
Police officers rushed to the vehicle and found Selene in the passenger seat. She had already died from the gunshot wound. Julio was taken into custody at the scene and later treated for minor injuries.
A Troubled Relationship
Friends of the couple described their relationship as rocky and sometimes toxic. They said Julio often carried a gun, even when there was no real reason to. Selene was described as a kind, funny, and loving person, someone who didn’t deserve what happened to her.
Facing Justice
Julio Machado Vasquez has been charged with open murder with a deadly weapon. Police and prosecutors are now building their case to determine whether the shooting was truly an accident—or something more deliberate.
His first court appearance is scheduled soon, and many in the community are hoping that justice will be served.
A Community in Mourning
Selene’s death has left friends and family heartbroken. It’s a painful reminder of how quickly things can turn tragic when violence enters a relationship. Community members are speaking out about the importance of recognizing warning signs in abusive relationships and getting help before things go too far.
