HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) - Human remains found more than two years ago in a remote area of Huntsville have been identified as those of a missing suburban Houston teenager.
Huntsville police say DNA testing has confirmed the victim is Noe Anael Espinal, of Spring. His skeletal remains were found in September 2016 scattered along a power line easement. Police say the body also had been set on fire. His family had reported him missing.
Six people, five from Houston and one from Huntsville, have been indicted on murder charges for his fatal stabbing. Police tell The Huntsville Item all six are from El Salvador, are living in the country illegally and are members of the MS-13 gang.
Authorities believe Espinal belonged to a rival gang, which played a role in his slaying.
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Information from: The Huntsville Item, http://www.itemonline.com
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