A Thai court is set to deliver its verdict on Thursday in the case of Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, the son of a renowned Spanish actor, who is accused of murdering and dismembering a Colombian plastic surgeon he encountered online. The case has garnered significant attention in Spain, with numerous Spanish journalists attending the trial. Daniel, a 30-year-old chef and son of actor Rodolfo Sancho, is alleged to have killed Edwin Arrieta Arteaga on the tourist island of Koh Pha Ngan last year. His trial, which included charges of premeditated murder, hiding a body, and destroying documents, took place in April on nearby Koh Samui, famous for its clear waters and lively parties. Sancho denies the charge of premeditated murder, although he has admitted to killing Arrieta in what he claims was self-defense. He also confessed to hiding the body but denies destroying Arrieta's passport. The two had arranged to meet after connecting online. During the trial, it was revealed that Sancho had distributed parts of Arrieta's body in plastic bags across Koh Pha Ngan. Despite the potential for a death sentence, Arrieta's family has expressed a preference for life imprisonment. "Let him stay in Thailand so he can reflect on his actions," said Darling Arrieta, the victim's sister, in an HBO documentary. Sancho's father stated in the documentary that Arrieta had threatened his son, leading to a fight and an accidental death. The defense argues that Sancho acted in self-defense after Arrieta attempted to force him into sexual activity. According to El Mundo, Sancho claimed he did not report the incident immediately due to shock and because it was an accident. However, a lawyer for the victim's family asserts that Sancho lives in a "false reality" and continues to deny responsibility. The Thai police have been praised for their thorough investigation. It was proven during the trial that Sancho had prepared for the crime by purchasing knives, plastic bags, and cleaning supplies, which were stored in the room where the murder occurred. Sancho's legal team maintains optimism, arguing that the trial showed no evidence of premeditation.
Text: Lara Palmer
26.08.2024
Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, son of famed Spanish actor, faces verdict for murdering Colombian surgeon