The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has increased its reward to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Joseph "Troubles" Matos, a Chicago man wanted in connection with the 2021 murder of National Guard member Chrys Carvajal. Matos, described as a "CHICAGO GANGSTER wanted for murder" in a recent social media post by Eva Knott, is considered armed and dangerous, according to authorities. The FBI's Chicago Division confirmed the heightened reward, urging the public not to approach Matos directly.
Matos is allegedly a member of the Milwaukee Kings street gang, an organization known for narcotics trafficking and violent acts to maintain territory on Chicago's North Side. He faces charges of murder-in-aid of racketeering and murder through the use of a firearm, with an arrest warrant issued in May 2024 by the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois. The reward had previously been increased from $10,000 to $25,000 before reaching its current $50,000 sum.
The murder of 19-year-old Chrys Carvajal occurred on July 3, 2021, in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood, as Carvajal was walking to his car after a party. Investigators allege Matos acted as the getaway driver, while co-defendant Gary Roberson, who was arrested and charged in June 2024, was identified as the gunman. The shooting is believed to have been a random act of violence intended to elevate the gang status of those involved.
Despite an initial arrest shortly after the incident, Matos was released due to inconsistent witness statements and insufficient evidence, according to police reports obtained by Fox Chicago. However, federal charges were later filed, and Matos has remained at large since May 2024. Authorities indicate he has ties to Chicago, Indiana, the northwest suburbs, and potentially the greater Dallas area, California, and Puerto Rico.
The FBI continues to solicit public assistance, emphasizing that all tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or visiting tips.fbi.gov. The agency reiterates that Matos "SHOULD BE CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGEROUS," as stated in the social media alert, and advises extreme caution. The increased reward reflects the FBI's ongoing commitment to apprehending Matos and bringing justice for Carvajal's murder.
