Missouri murder suspect arrested in Iola

IOLA, Kan. – Police in Iola, Kansas arrest a Missouri murder fugitive and a woman they say attempted to aid him in his flight.

Authorities say 19-year-old Robin Morales-Sanchez is wanted for the July 30 murder of Moises Hernandez-Sanchez in Ashland, Missouri. According to investigators, Morales-Sanchez fled the scene after stabbing Hernandez-Sanchez and another victim multiple times. He’s charged with second-degree murder, first-degree assault and two counts of armed criminal action. He also had a warrant out of Cole County, Missouri for domestic assault.

Police received intelligence that Morales-Sanchez was hiding out in Iola. Officers also developed a probable cause to believe Sarah Malki was harboring Morales Sanchez and attempting to help him flee the country. They issued a warrant for her arrest on charges of hindering prosecution of a felony.

On August 4, the Iola Police Department and Kansas Bureau of Investigation served a search warrant in the 400 block of S. Colborn Street in Iola. They arrested both Morales-Sanchez and Malki during the search. Both are in custody awaiting extradition to Missouri with no bond.

“I’m tremendously proud of our team and the tireless work they’ve done,” said Ashland Chief of Police Gabe Edwards. “The Hernandez-Sanchez family are an important part of our community and we are confident justice will be served.”