Fugitive on the Run for Nearly 40 Years Caught in Florida
In a stunning conclusion to a nearly four-decade-long manhunt, Donald Santini, a fugitive wanted for murder, was apprehended in Florida on March 11, 2025. Santini, who had been on the run since 1984, was finally captured in a routine traffic stop in the Sunshine State, marking the end of one of the longest pursuits in U.S. law enforcement history.
Santini's capture came as a surprise to many, as he had managed to evade authorities for 39 years. His criminal history dates back to the murder of Cynthia Wood in 1984, a case that remained unsolved until new evidence led to Santini's identification as the prime suspect. After his initial disappearance, Santini is believed to have lived under multiple aliases, making it difficult for law enforcement to track him down.
The arrest was the result of a joint effort by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Marshals Service, who had been working tirelessly to bring Santini to justice. Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed relief at the capture, stating, "This arrest brings closure to a case that has haunted our community for decades. We are grateful for the dedication of our officers and the assistance of federal agencies in finally apprehending this fugitive."
Santini is currently being held without bail in Florida, awaiting extradition to Texas, where he will face charges for the murder of Cynthia Wood. This arrest not only brings an end to a long-standing manhunt but also serves as a reminder of the perseverance of law enforcement in seeking justice, no matter how much time has passed.
