David Knezevich, a South Florida businessman, has been charged in connection with the February disappearance and presumed murder of his estranged wife, Ana Maria Henao, in Spain. A federal grand jury in Miami recently indicted the 36-year-old on several charges, including kidnapping resulting in death, foreign domestic violence resulting in death, and the murder of a U.S. national abroad.
The case has garnered international attention due to the chilling circumstances surrounding Henao’s disappearance. Although authorities in Spain and across Europe have conducted extensive searches, Henao’s body remains undiscovered.
According to the indictment, Knezevich traveled from Miami to Spain with the intent to harm his wife, ultimately committing a violent act that led to her death. The allegations paint a grim picture of premeditation, with prosecutors accusing Knezevich of abducting Henao from her Madrid apartment and taking deliberate steps to conceal his actions.
A Devastating Loss for the Henao Family
Henao, a 40-year-old American woman, was living in Madrid at the time of her disappearance. Her family, devastated by the unfolding events, expressed mixed emotions following the indictment.
“This charge confirms our worst fears,” said her brother, Diego Henao. “While it allows us to begin mourning, we continue searching for answers and advocating for justice in Ana’s memory.”
Ana’s mother, Aura Henao, emphasized the family’s reliance on the support of their community during this harrowing time. “The love and strength of our friends, family, and community are helping us process this latest development,” she said.
Allegations of Premeditation and Evidence
Prosecutors allege that Knezevich embarked on an elaborate journey in late January to carry out the crime. After traveling from Miami to Turkey and then to Serbia, his native country, he rented a car and drove to Spain. Surveillance footage and other evidence suggest Knezevich meticulously planned his actions.
Authorities say he spray-painted over security cameras in Henao’s apartment building and was seen on video leaving the premises with a suitcase. Court records also show that Knezevich purchased duct tape and spray paint from a Madrid hardware store on the same day Henao was last seen.
Further investigation revealed that the rental car Knezevich returned in mid-March had traveled nearly 4,800 miles. The vehicle had tinted windows and a new license plate frame, which the rental agency confirmed were modifications made during the rental period. Tollbooth cameras later identified a Peugeot matching the vehicle’s description near Madrid around the time of Henao’s disappearance. Additionally, the license plates on the car were stolen from another vehicle parked near Henao’s residence.
Legal Developments and Reactions
Knezevich was initially arrested in May at Miami International Airport for his alleged involvement in Henao’s kidnapping. With the new charges filed, the case against him has intensified. If convicted, Knezevich could face the death penalty.
His attorney, Jayne Weintraub, strongly denied the allegations, calling the indictment a “desperate attempt” by prosecutors to pursue unfounded charges. “There is no evidence that David Knezevich kidnapped or murder his wife,” Weintraub said, emphasizing that her client would plead not guilty.
On the other hand, those close to Henao believe the evidence against Knezevich is overwhelming. “The FBI’s work has strengthened the case, and I am hopeful justice will prevail,” said Sanna Rameau, a close friend of Henao and one of the last people to speak with her before her disappearance.
A Troubled Marriage
The indictment comes amidst reports of a contentious divorce between the couple. This domestic tension is seen as a potential motive for the alleged crime.
As the investigation continues, Ana Maria Henao’s family and friends remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, seeking accountability for the tragic events that unfolded earlier this year.
