Capture of Fugitive in Victor Jara Case

Authorities have arrested a fugitive convicted of the kidnapping and murder of renowned singer-songwriter Victor Jara in 1973, during Chile’s military rule. This information was confirmed in a Justice Department statement released on Sunday.

Victor Jara, known for songs like “El derecho de vivir en paz” (The Right to Live in Peace), was a pivotal figure in the New Chilean Song movement of the 1960s. Nelson Haase, a former military officer, was convicted for Jara’s brutal death. Jara was tortured and shot 44 times on September 16, 1973, just days after General Augusto Pinochet’s coup overthrew President Salvador Allende. Jara was 40 years old at the time.

Court documents from 2023 reveal, “He was subjected to physical torture, the most severe blows being those he received to his face and hands.” Before the 50th anniversary of the coup and Jara’s murder, seven retired military officers were sentenced for his killing, with prison terms varying from eight to 25 years.

Nelson Haase, aged 80, evaded capture after his 25-year sentence was announced. The Justice Department confirmed, “An order has been issued for the imprisonment of retired military officer Nelson Haase Mazzei.” Local reports indicated Haase was located in the Los Lagos region, approximately 590 miles south of the capital.

General Hernan Chacon, 85, another convicted officer, died by suicide when authorities attempted to arrest him in 2023. The other five officers, including Pedro Barrientos, are incarcerated. Barrientos was detained by ICE during a Florida traffic stop in 2023.

The military coup on September 11, 1973, led by General Augusto Pinochet, resulted in widespread detentions and brutalities. Chile Stadium was converted into a detention center where numerous individuals were tortured or executed, including Victor Jara. Chile Stadium was renamed in Jara’s honor in 2003. Jara’s murder is among the most serious crimes attributed to the 1973-1990 dictatorship, which culminated in 3,200 deaths and disappearances.

“On Sept. 11, 1973, General Augusto Pinochet led a violent coup against Salvador Allende, the democratically elected president of Chile,” stated ICE.

Jara’s legacy remains significant, symbolized by his enduring impact on Chilean music and culture.