Special Agent Ariel Rios

Special Agent Ariel Rios | United States Department of the Treasury - Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, U.S. Government
United States Department of the Treasury - Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, U.S. Government
Special Agent Ariel Rios

United States Department of the Treasury - Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, U.S. Government

End of Watch Thursday, December 2, 1982

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Ariel Rios

Special Agent Ariel Rios was shot and killed while conducting an undercover operation in Miami, Florida.

He was shot while struggling with a suspect who was attempting to shoot other ATF agents at a hotel at 4911 W. Flagler Street.

The subject who murdered Special Agent Rios was sentenced to 60 years in prison.

Special Agent Rios was survived by his wife and two children.

The Ariel Rios Federal Building, located in Washington, DC, was named in honor of Agent Rios.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Location Florida
  • Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
  • Offender Sentenced to 60 years

undercover

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I used to try my non-existent Spanish on Ariel when he called in for a tag or other info. He always laughed when I asked if it was “mi diablito” on the phone. I have never forgotten that morning when we learned what had happened, it was shocking and heartbreaking in so many ways. I am so glad Ariel has been remembered like this, it was the right thing to do.

m.p.
Intelligence Clerk, BATF

February 23, 2022

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