Mexico Bitcoin Robbery Case: Four Killed in Murder Linked to Cold Wallet; Suspects Face Trial

ME News reports that on September 8 (UTC+8), the Attorney General’s Office of the State of Mexico (FGJEM) announced the arrest of two suspects, Diego Sebastián and Gerardo, in connection with the murders of Jonathan Meléndez, keyboardist of the rock band Camilo Séptimo, his pregnant wife, their daughter, and an employee. The victims’ golden retriever was also killed. The suspects are accused of committing the crimes to obtain a cold wallet allegedly containing millions of dollars in Bitcoin. One of the suspects was the victim’s business partner and used this relationship to gain access to the victim’s home. Both suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, where a judge will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with criminal proceedings. If convicted, each suspect could face sentences of 25 to 70 years per victim. Violent robberies targeting cryptocurrency holders—known as “wrench attacks”—are on the rise. According to CertiK data, 52 wrench attacks were reported globally in the first half of 2026, a 33.3% year-over-year increase; among these, 20 were home invasions targeting cryptocurrency holders, compared to just one during the same period last year. Chainalysis estimates that criminals stole over $30 million in cryptocurrency through wrench attacks in the first half of 2026. Globally, wrench attacks increased by 75% year-over-year in 2025, reaching 72 incidents, with France leading at 19 cases, and Europe accounting for approximately 40% of all global attacks. (Source: ChainCatcher)