Illegal Immigrant Suspect in Utah Woman's Murder Had Been Deported Twice

Talia Benward's Tragic Death and the Suspect's Deportation History

Talia Benward, a 31-year-old woman from Kearns, Utah, was last seen on New Year's Day at a Maverik store in West Jordan. Her body was later found in a remote area of Tooele, about 45 minutes away. Authorities identified her boyfriend, Nestor Rocha-Aguayo, a 24-year-old from Sinaloa, Mexico, as a suspect in her disappearance and murder.

Rocha-Aguayo, an illegal immigrant, had been twice deported from the United States. He first entered the country illegally in 2016 and was convicted on local charges. He was deported in April 2024 but illegally re-entered the country at an unknown date. He was again apprehended in November and deported in December. However, he re-entered the country for a third time without authorization.

On January 5, U.S. Marshals arrested Rocha-Aguayo on charges of aggravated murder, abuse of a corpse, aggravated robbery, and other charges. Surveillance footage showed Benward and Rocha-Aguayo arguing in a vehicle on New Year's Day before driving to Tooele, where Benward's phone stopped tracking her location. Blood stains were found inside the vehicle, and Benward's remains were discovered covered in sticks in a remote area.

Rocha-Aguayo had a history of criminal charges, including robbery, assault, and domestic violence incidents with Benward. Police are investigating Benward's death as a homicide and are asking anyone with information to contact them.

This case highlights the complex issue of illegal immigration and the challenges of preventing individuals with criminal records from re-entering the country. It also underscores the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help if you or someone you know is in danger.