The FBI elevated a Chicago gang member accused of murdering a 19-year-old National Guard soldier to its Top 10 Most Wanted list, increasing the reward from $50,000 to $1 million for information leading to his capture.

National Guardsman Killed in Random Gang Attack

Joseph Matos, 44, known by the street name ‘Troubles,’ stands accused of fatally shooting Chrys Carvajal on July 3, 2021, in Chicago’s Belmont Cragin neighborhood. Carvajal had just graduated from basic training and was walking to his car after a Fourth of July weekend party when he was gunned down. Federal investigators determined the young guardsman had no criminal history or gang connections, making him a random target in what authorities describe as a senseless killing committed solely to boost the shooters’ status within their street gang.

FBI officials identified Matos as a high-ranking member of the Milwaukee Kings street gang operating on Chicago’s north side. Federal prosecutors charged him with murder in aid of racketeering and murder through the use of a firearm. An arrest warrant issued in May 2024 led to the capture of his alleged accomplice, Gary Roberson, days later, but Matos evaded authorities and remains a fugitive.

ABC News

@ABC

A man sought for the “senseless” murder of a National Guard member in Chicago has been added to the FBI’s “Top 10 Most Wanted” list, federal officials announced on Tuesday.

Read more: abcnews.link/wgjiICH

9:07 PM · Oct 20, 2026

Distinctive Tattoos Aid Identification Efforts

FBI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Ryan Whalen detailed Matos’ extensive body art during a Tuesday news conference, noting the irony of his most prominent marking. The fugitive has ‘MOST WANTED’ tattooed across his stomach, along with ‘M-Town Kings’ on the right side of his neck and ‘1300’ on the left. Additional tattoos include ‘Heavensent, Hellbound’ on his forearms, ‘Move in Silence’ on his right hand, and ‘Trust no one’ on his left hand. These distinctive markings should make Matos easier to identify, authorities said.

Federal agents believe Matos remains in the greater Chicago area, though he maintains connections to Texas and California. Whalen delivered a direct warning to anyone harboring the fugitive, stating they face serious federal charges for obstructing justice. He emphasized that the FBI’s reach extends worldwide and that Matos cannot hide indefinitely.

Family Seeks Justice for Fallen Soldier

Carvajal’s sister, Jennifer Ramirez, spoke at the news conference about her brother’s legacy and the ongoing pain his family endures. She described him as a loving son, loyal friend, and brave young man whose life purpose centered on serving his community and country. Ramirez urged anyone with information to contact authorities, emphasizing that justice would demonstrate her brother’s life mattered and that their fight for accountability has meaning. She expressed hope that no other family would experience similar pain from gun violence claiming innocent lives.