Kalinina Ortega Murder: Gardener Confesses to 2016 Killing

Venezuelan authorities have arrested Armando Ricci Degiosti, 71, in connection with the 2016 disappearance and death of journalist Kalinina Ortega, according to an announcement by Douglas Rico, director of the Scientific, Criminal and Forensic Investigation Corps (Cicpc). The arrest, made in Bolívar state, concludes a decade-long investigation into the case.

Ortega, 81 at the time of her death, was reported missing in 2016. Her remains were discovered in 2022 buried in the backyard of her Caracas home, located on Avenida Peñalver in the San Bernardino parish, Libertador municipality.

Ricci Degiosti, who worked as Ortega’s gardener, allegedly gained access to her home and exploited her trust. According to Rico, the two engaged in a heated argument on the day of the murder, during which Ricci Degiosti struck Ortega with an empty bottle, causing fatal injuries. He then concealed her body by burying it in the garden and planting a fruit tree over the grave.

Following the homicide, investigators determined Ricci Degiosti cleaned the house to remove traces of blood and stole several valuables before fleeing the scene. The Cicpc’s Homicide Investigations Division conducted an exhaustive investigation, leading to the identification and subsequent arrest of the suspect.

The case has now been transferred to the Public Ministry for prosecution, according to officials.