Cubs prospect wanted in Dominican Republic, accused of shooting death

Cubs international prospect Josefrailin Alcántara is reportedly wanted by Dominican National Police as he’s accused of a shooting death. 

There’s some news that no one ever wants to see, and such is the case for a Chicago Cubs international prospect, Josefrailin Alcántara.

According to a report from Nathaniel Peréz Neró and translated by Héctor Gómez, Alcántara is wanted by the Dominican National Police in his native Dominican Republic. He is accused of shooting a man, Darwin Díaz Valerio, to death on Friday, May 19.

The police are searching for the Cubs prospect, per the report. Peréz also reported that the shooting was related to some a debt of roughly $2,750 and that Valerio was considered a friend of Alcántara. They got into an argument inside of a vehicle over the debt, at which time Alcántara is alleged to have shot Valerio twice.

Authorities now have the car in their possession. Alcántara also reportedly received medical treatment, but then fled. His cousin was allegedly at the scene of the crime as well, but has been arrested.

Cubs: Josefrailin Alcántara accused of shooting man to death, wanted in Dominican Republic

Josefrailin Alcántara was signed by the Cubs in January 2022 and given a $500,000 bonus upon his signing. Just 18 years old as of these reports about his involvement with the shooting death, he was the fourth-highest-paid international player that Chicago signed in that class of 30 players from around the world.

After signing, the young outfielder played with the Cubs affiliate in the Dominican Summer League last year, hitting just .136 over 118 at-bats.

There are no updates about whether the Dominican National Police have any information or leads in locating Alcántara at this time.

This is a tragic story in just about every sense of the word. We will keep you updated with any further information regarding the situation.