Renowned Actor’s Son Sentenced to Life for Murder in Thailand
In a shocking turn of events, Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, the son of famed Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho Aguirre, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder and dismemberment of Colombian plastic surgeon Edwin Arrieta Arteaga on Koh Phangan, Thailand. Sancho, now 30, had pleaded guilty to the crime in August 2023, asserting that he acted in self-defense.
Sancho claimed that he had been a "hostage" to Arrieta, who allegedly harbored an obsession with him. The murder case has captured extensive media attention in Spain, prompting numerous journalists to travel to Thailand for the trial proceedings.
Originally facing a death sentence from a court on the nearby island of Koh Samui, Sancho’s punishment was later reduced to life imprisonment due to his cooperation during the trial. In addition to his prison term, he has been ordered to pay 4 million baht (approximately $118,000) in damages to Arrieta’s family.
Bussakorn Kaewleeled, the lawyer representing Arrieta’s family, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, highlighting that the family feels justice has been served along with financial compensation.
The investigation revealed grim details, including the discovery of Arrieta’s remains at a landfill and evidence suggesting premeditation, such as purchases of a knife and cleaning supplies. Police reported that Sancho was initially evasive about Arrieta’s disappearance before eventually admitting to the murder during questioning.
Sancho and Arrieta reportedly met online and agreed to meet in person. The defense claimed that the act was in self-defense, with Sancho alleging attempted sexual assault by Arrieta.
This case has resonated deeply within both the Spanish and Thai communities, marking a tragic aftermath of a growing relationship that turned fatal.
