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Ex-boyfriend charged in murder of Houston college student found dead in her own car trunk

19-year-old Ariel Cruz confesses to ex-girlfriend's death after her body was found inside a trunk in SW Houston (Copyright 2023 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

HOUSTON – A man has been arrested and charged after confessing to murdering his ex-girlfriend in southwest Houston, the Houston Police Department said Wednesday.

Ariel Cruz, 19, was charged with the murder of his 21-year-old ex-girlfriend, Idania Campos, who was found dead in the trunk of her own car.

RELATED: Relatives find 21-year-old woman’s body inside trunk in SW Houston after reporting her missing

Cruz shot the woman after she broke up with him, charging documents stated.

Campos was reported missing Tuesday morning after she did not arrive at school.

RELATED: Resources offered by Houston-area colleges for victims of domestic violence

Her family said they found her black Honda Civic parked in the 5400 block of Indigo Street in southwest Houston Tuesday afternoon.

21-year-old woman’s body stuffed in trunk was reportedly shot, killed by her ex-boyfriend who confessed to the murder (Copyright 2023 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

“They were able to track her car to this location. The relatives made entry into the car, looked in the trunk, and found the body of their relative in the trunk,” said Houston police Lt. Larry Crowson said.

SEE ALSO: Here’s how you can use your cell phone, other smart devices to keep you safe

Cruz was at the scene with the family searching for the victim. Relatives tell KPRC 2 reporter Re’Chelle Turner he even consoled them when they made the gruesome discovery, knowing he was the one who killed her.

Throughout their investigation, authorities identified Cruz as a suspect. After he was detained, investigators say he confessed to his role in Campos’ death.

VIDEO: Ring doorbell captures footage of Idania Campos’ family asking people if they have seen her

In February, KPRC 2 News launched our Breaking Free initiative, highlighting domestic violence in our community and offering families solutions. Click here for a list of free domestic violence resources.

Help is also available immediately by calling the following numbers:

Explore more of our ‘Breaking Free’ coverage using the links below.


About the Author

Cynthia Miranda graduated from UT Austin and is a proud Houstonian. She is passionate about covering breaking news and community stories. Cynthia previously covered elections, the historic 2021 Texas winter storm, and other news in East Texas. In addition to writing, she also loves going to concerts, watching movies, and cooking with her family.

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