Spanish YouTuber Sentenced to Life for Murdering Surgeon in Thailand | Daniel Sancho Bronchalo

Daniel Sancho Bronchalo | Chiangrai Times

30-year old Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, a Spanish cooking YouTuber, was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Colombian surgeon Edwin Arrieta Arteaga. The crime happened on the island of Koh Phangan, Thailand, in August 2023.

The Crime and Arrest

Daniel and Edwin met online and decided to meet in person while both were vacationing in Thailand. On August 2, 2023, police discovered parts of Edwin’s dismembered body at a landfill on Koh Phangan. Daniel initially reported Edwin missing but later, during an interrogation, he admitted to the murder He claimed self-defense, alleging that Edwin tried to sexually assault him. Despite his self-defense plea, Daniel confessed to dismembering the body and disposing of it in various locations around the island.

Trial and Sentencing

The trial took place on the nearby island of Koh Samui.

Thai media reported that before the murder, Daniel purchased a knife, rubber gloves, and cleaning agents. He led police to seven sites where he disposed of Edwin’s body parts in plastic bags.

Daniel was found guilty of premeditated murder, concealing a corpse, and destruction of property. Initially sentenced to death, his punishment was commuted to life in prison due to his cooperation during the trial. Daniel is also required to pay Edwin’s family 4.2 million baht, or around $118,000; £89,000.

Family and Media Attention

The case has been a focal point in Spanish media, partly due to Daniel’s family connections. His father, Rodolfo Sancho, is a prominent television actor, and his mother, Silvia Bronchalo, has also acted. The high-profile nature of the case attracted numerous Spanish reporters to Thailand for the trial. This case even inspired a documentary titled El Caso Sancho by HBO.

Legal and Financial Repercussions

Daniel can apply to transfer the remainder of his sentence to Spain if he pays the required compensation and serves at least four years in Thailand. The victim’s family, represented by attorney Bussakorn Kaewleeled, expressed satisfaction with the life sentence and financial compensation.

“The plaintiff is satisfied with the sentence because he will be put in prison for life and they receive some financial compensation.”

Want more true crime cases? Listen to this one next!

And remember, sharing the post with a friend is a free and easy way to support the show. 

Question: Is there a case you want me to talk about?

🔗 Get involved in the conversation: WhatsApp