The arrest and subsequent release on bond of a Texas man suspected in a 2021 cold case murder has left the victim’s family seeking justice and answers.
Mithovar Christopher Antoine Jr., now 22, was arrested last week for the deadly stabbing of Nikolas Martinez, 23, near his apartment complex in South Austin in July 2021. Martinez was playing video games with his nephew when he was stabbed, and despite calling 911 and driving himself to a nearby gas station for help, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Martinez’s parents expressed their frustration over the lack of information about their son’s killer, with his father Martin Martinez stating, “Nothing’s gonna make it better, but just not knowing is just killing us.” His mother, Wendy Martinez, urged anyone with information to come forward.
An anonymous tip led Austin Police to Antoine Jr., who was found in Temple and arrested. Despite a bond set at $150,000, he was released from jail just four days later without being extradited to Travis County.
Antoine Jr. had a history of criminal activity, including unauthorized use of a vehicle and burglary of a habitation prior to Martinez’s murder. With the possibility of his probation being revoked, he may face additional charges and return to jail.
A grand jury in Travis County will ultimately decide whether to indict Antoine Jr. for Martinez’s murder, as the victim’s family continues to seek closure and justice for their son.
