MERRILLVILLE, Ind. — A man wanted for the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend in La Grange, Kentucky, was arrested early Wednesday morning in Indiana, according to law enforcement officials. The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Oscar David Torres Alvarez, is accused of killing 33-year-old Katherine Andrea Homez Gomez at her workplace Tuesday evening.
Police responded to the Oldham County Health Department on Commerce Parkway around 7:45 p.m. Tuesday following reports of an assault. When officers from the La Grange Police Department and Oldham County Police arrived, they discovered Gomez dead at the scene. Authorities say she had suffered multiple lacerations and was pronounced dead on-site. The location, typically a place of public health and safety, was quickly transformed into a crime scene.
Investigators immediately identified Torres Alvarez, the victim’s former boyfriend, as the suspect. A search was launched across state lines, leading to his discovery in northwest Indiana. Around 2 a.m. Wednesday, Indiana State Police located Torres Alvarez driving north on Interstate 65 near Merrillville. A child was found in the vehicle with him but was unharmed. Authorities have not released details about the child’s identity or relationship to the suspect.
With the assistance of the Merrillville Police Department, officers conducted a felony stop on U.S. Route 30 and took Torres Alvarez into custody without incident. He is currently being held in Indiana and is awaiting extradition back to Kentucky, where he will face formal charges in connection to the homicide.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though officials have confirmed that the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute. The murder has sparked renewed concerns about domestic violence and the importance of early intervention and support for victims in abusive relationships. Friends and coworkers of Gomez expressed shock and sorrow, describing her as a kind and hardworking individual.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement is urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Authorities have not released further details about upcoming court proceedings or potential charges. However, they say more information will be shared once Torres Alvarez is returned to Kentucky. In the meantime, the tragic death of Katherine Homez Gomez serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers that can arise from domestic violence.