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Montgomery Village Today
By the People, for the People
Man Arrested in 2023 Montgomery County Homicide
Franklin Villalobos Gomez charged with first-degree murder in death of Jose Israel Centeno Velasquez
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Authorities have arrested Franklin Villalobos Gomez and charged him with first-degree murder in the 2023 death of Jose Israel Centeno Velasquez, whose body was found in a creek in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Why it matters
This arrest provides some closure for the community after a tragic homicide two years ago, though the motive and circumstances around Centeno Velasquez's death remain unclear. Montgomery County has seen an uptick in violent crime in recent years, raising concerns about public safety.
The details
On July 9, 2023, police responded to a report of a body in a creek near Black Rock Road and Seneca Creek Trail in Montgomery County. The victim was identified as 45-year-old Jose Israel Centeno Velasquez of Gaithersburg. Authorities have now arrested Franklin Villalobos Gomez and charged him with first-degree murder in Centeno Velasquez's death.
- On July 9, 2023, police responded to a report of a body in a creek.
- On February 10, 2026, authorities announced the arrest of Franklin Villalobos Gomez.
The players
Franklin Villalobos Gomez
The man arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the 2023 death of Jose Israel Centeno Velasquez.
Jose Israel Centeno Velasquez
The 45-year-old Gaithersburg resident whose body was found in a creek in Montgomery County in 2023.
What’s next
The case will now proceed through the criminal justice system, with Villalobos Gomez facing trial for the first-degree murder charge.
The takeaway
This arrest provides some closure for the community after a tragic homicide two years ago, though the full details and motive behind Centeno Velasquez's death remain unclear. Violent crime continues to be a concern in Montgomery County, underscoring the need for continued efforts to improve public safety.
