Colorado Man Accused of Killing Roommate, Burying Him in Shallow Grave, and Stealing $75K While Claiming Pneumonia Death
PUEBLO, Colorado — A 43-year-old man has been arrested after authorities say he killed his roommate, buried him in a shallow grave, and stole more than $75,000 from his bank account, all while convincing friends the victim had died of pneumonia.
The suspect, Leon Pantoya, is charged with first-degree murder, identity theft, and felony theft in connection with the 2022 killing of 39-year-old Steven Robinson, originally from South Carolina but living in Pueblo since 2017.
Remains Discovered in 2022
On September 25, 2022, deputies responded to a field in the 3500 block of 36th Lane after a property owner reported finding human remains in a shallow grave.
An autopsy later revealed Robinson had died from blunt force and sharp force trauma, ruling the case a homicide. But at the time, the victim’s identity remained unknown.
DNA and Forensic Breakthroughs
Investigators struggled for over a year to identify the remains. A forensic artist produced a reconstruction image, but it generated few leads.
In March 2023, a DNA profile was developed but did not match any known records. Eventually, genetic genealogy linked the remains to Robinson’s relatives, confirming his identity.
Detectives later learned Robinson had been living with Pantoya and that Pantoya told friends and Robinson’s landlord that Robinson had died of pneumonia on January 22, 2022.
Alleged Theft of Military Disability Payments
Investigators also uncovered financial records showing Pantoya had withdrawn more than $75,000 from Robinson’s bank account, which continued receiving Robinson’s military disability payments for more than a year after his death.
The remains were ultimately found buried on property belonging to one of Pantoya’s relatives.
Sheriff Praises Multi-Year Investigation
Sheriff David J. Lucero credited Detective Vanessa Simpson for her relentless pursuit of the case.
“Detective Simpson has been dedicated and committed to solving this case for years. Bringing closure is a testament to modern science and solid investigative police work,” Lucero said.
Pantoya is being held without bond in the Pueblo County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on October 1.
The chilling case highlights the role of forensic science and persistence in uncovering the truth behind a staged death. For more breaking crime updates and justice news, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.