Fugitive Neftali Lugo Captured in Arkansas After Multi-State Manhunt

A Connecticut fugitive who fled across state lines to avoid prosecution has been captured in Arkansas, concluding a months-long manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

According to police records, Neftali Lugo, 33, was arrested on May 30, 2025, by officers with the Murfreesboro Police Department. He was transported back to Connecticut, where he will be processed at the Bridgeport Police Department.

Lugo originally fled from Connecticut shortly after posting a $100,000 bond on a first-degree charge. Authorities say he fled knowing that his escape would trigger a violation of probation, for which he faces five years in jail. Lugo then drove to Houston, Texas, with his girlfriend in an attempt to avoid capture.

Authorities also reported that roughly three months later, Lugo was charged with two counts of assault causing bodily harm in the Houston/Harris County area and fled again—this time leaving Texas altogether.

Law enforcement agents tracked Lugo after a brief encounter with the Smith County Sheriff’s Department in Tyler, Texas, which led investigators to his suspected residence on W. Dickson Street in Murfreesboro. His arrest by Murfreesboro police concluded the extensive operation.

Given Lugo’s repeated flight and the severity of the charges, authorities had issued a strong advisory: “DO NOT BOND OUT!!”

Officials praised the cooperation between agencies and stressed that fugitives who attempt to evade justice across state lines will eventually be brought back to face their charges.