Suspect Arrested After Dismembering Woman With Ax

SAN ANTONIO, TX -- Weeks after the dismembered remains of 31-year-old Nicole Perry were found in East San Antonio, authorities have released gruesome new details and arrested a suspect.

During the investigation, police discovered Perry had been dismembered while she was still alive. Her hands were removed before she was dumped earlier this year.

The evidence found on her body led police to a home on West Harlan and to a suspect.

According to the Bexar County Sheriff's Office, 26-year-old Rafael Castillo has been arrested in connection to the murder.

According to Sheriff Salazar, Perry was killed over a disagreement. Police believe Castillo used a hatchet to dismember the victim while she was alive in order to inflict as much pain as possible.

"This was a gruesome attack," said Salazar. Castillo wanted to "make an example out of her."

A witness told police a second suspect had asked them and four men to put a square package into an SUV and drive to the dumpsite.

The witness returned to the home and was handed a crockpot, which they claimed had human hands with painted fingers in it. The witness then alleges they realized what happened and left the scene.

The owner of the home where the murder occurred told investigators Perry and her fiance were staying with him because they were homeless. Castillo was also living at the house at the time.

The home was described as a place where "people continuously come and go." 

The homeowner told police Perry and the unnamed fiance were arguing so he left the room. 

A witness told investigators Castillo became involved in the argument and told Perry to "shut up before he shut her up."

When the homeowner returned he found Perry had an ax in her head and Castillo standing over her.

Castillo then claimed he killed Perry because she "disrespected her fiance's name."

Castillo was arrested in Brownsville "without incident." He has been charged with murder, but further charges may be added.

At this time investigators have not located all of Perry's body parts and other suspects may be charged in connection to her murder.