Las Vegas, NV – In a chilling verdict, a Las Vegas jury has found Ryan Bentley, 45, guilty of the gruesome murder of Rene Enriquez and the subsequent disposal of his body in a barrel. The jury convicted Bentley on charges of murder with the use of a deadly weapon and conspiracy to commit murder, marking the conclusion of a case that has shocked the community.
Bentley was arrested in 2022 after police linked him to Enriquez’s death. Prosecutors revealed that Bentley shot Enriquez at a residence near Washington Avenue and Jones Boulevard, allegedly over suspicions that Enriquez had been snitching on him and his associates. Enriquez, who was described as a “friend of a friend,” had plans to move into Bentley’s home before his tragic end.
The case took a grim turn when a county worker stumbled upon Enriquez’s remains in a barrel near Quail Avenue and Palm Street. Investigators identified the victim through his tattoos, as detailed in court documents.
Adding to the disturbing nature of the crime, authorities revealed that Bentley had discussed purchasing a saw and lye—materials commonly associated with body disposal—to cover up the murder. This evidence painted a chilling picture of premeditation and an attempt to erase all traces of the crime.
Bentley’s conviction brings closure to a case that has rattled Las Vegas. However, the severity of his sentence remains to be determined. A judge is set to hand down Bentley’s punishment on April 24, where he could face a lengthy prison term, potentially life behind bars.
This shocking case serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of criminal entanglements and the devastating consequences of violence. As the community processes the tragedy, Enriquez’s family and loved ones await justice for the loss of their beloved son, brother, and friend.
