Family of Illinois National Guardsman asks for public's help in finding suspected killer – NBC Chicago

The FBI is asking for the public's help in finding a man who investigators say is wanted for shooting and killing an Illinois National Guardsman in 2021.

The suspect, identified as Joseph Matos, 42, is considered armed and dangerous, with authorities offering a $10,000 reward in the case.

Matos is suspected of killing Chrys Carvajal, 19, as he left a party and returned to his car in Chicago's Belmont Cragin neighborhood, days before his 20th birthday.

Carvajal was home visiting family and had just finished basic training.

“We know this is the right step. We know the community will do their part and we will find him,” Jennifer Ramirez, Carvajal's sister, told NBC Chicago.

“To come back and have your life taken so senselessly by human beings who have no moral decency, no faith in God. It just hurts, you know.”

Federal prosecutors allege that Matos and another gang member shot Carvajal to “maintain and strengthen their positions” in a violent street gang in Chicago.

An arrest warrant has since been issued for Matos, with the second man involved identified as Gary Roberson, 40, who was charged with racketeering and remains behind bars.

“That's the lifestyle he chose,” she said. “My brother didn't have that lifestyle, so if this man continues to be on the streets, it won't just be my brother, it could be anyone else.”

Ramirez said the Cook County State's Attorney's Office did not file charges, citing a lack of evidence in the case, leading his family and friends to protest the decision.

“If we continue to let these criminals out, they will continue to commit the same crimes and kill our children – it’s not fair,” she said.

The family said Carvajal was so proud to serve his country and wanted to become a Chicago police officer. They described him as a compassionate and loving son and brother who inspired people to change the world and help young people.

“I miss him and I'm doing everything I can to make him justice,” Ramirez said.

As his family marks the anniversary of his death, they hope a new reward in the case will be enough to prompt the public to denounce the alleged killer.

“Please do the right thing: speak out,” Ramirez said.

Matos is 6'2″ and weighs approximately 200 pounds. He has several tattoos, including on the right and left sides of his neck, his right and left hands, his forearms, his stomach, and his chest.

Anyone with information on the suspect's whereabouts is encouraged to contact the FBI's toll-free hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or call Chicago police.