Man charged in 2012 murder of trans performer Lorena Escalera

Henry Pacheco, 44, has been charged with second-degree murder and arson in the cold case killing of trans performer Lorena Escalera, also known as Lorena Xtravaganza, who was found dead in her Brooklyn apartment on May 12, 2012. Investigators allege that Pacheco entered Escalera's building shortly before the fire started, and phone records indicate he made multiple calls to her prior to the incident. The Medical Examiner determined that Escalera was killed before the fire began, which was classified as intentional. Pacheco, who is already serving time for a separate murder, was arraigned and ordered held without bail, facing a potential sentence of 25 years to life if convicted. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez expressed hope that this arrest would bring solace to Escalera's friends and family after a decade-long quest for justice. The investigation involved surveillance footage, phone records, and forensic evidence that connected Pacheco to the crime.