Shivangi Sinha
Losing a family member is one of the most painful experiences anyone can go through, and for Carlos and Claudia Aguilar, that pain became a reality in September 2012 when their son Christian Aguilar was murdered. Their younger son, Alex Aguilar, also had to endure the heartbreak of losing his brother. The family, originally from Florida, faced weeks of anguish as they searched for Christian, hoping for answers. In ABC’s ’20/20: Killer on Campus,’ the Aguilars opened up about their love for Christian, the nightmare they lived through during the investigation, and the emotional toll his tragic death left on them.
Christian Aguilar’s Family Got a Lot of Help From the Community
Carlos and Claudia Aguilar began their journey together in Cali, Colombia, but with hopes of creating a better future, they eventually settled in Miami, Florida. After marrying in 1992, they built a close-knit family with their two sons, Christian and Alex Aguilar. The couple instilled strong values in their children, raising them to be compassionate and service-oriented. In 2012, when Christian enrolled at the University of Florida, they were filled with pride and excitement. However, that joy turned into fear and uncertainty on the morning of September 21, 2012, when Erika Friman called to say Christian was missing. Without hesitation, Carlos and Claudia drove to Gainesville, desperate for answers.
When the Aguilar family arrived in Gainesville, they learned that Christian had not been seen since the previous night. Alex Aguilar, then a student at Doral Academy Charter High School, was picked up by his father so the family could be together. Wasting no time, they filed a missing person report and began working with authorities. Carlos Aguilar took to the media, making heartfelt appeals to the community for help. Moved by the family’s pain, many came forward to assist in the search. When Christian’s remains were found, the family’s worst fears were realized. The greatest shock, however, came when Pedro Bravo—Christian’s high school friend—was charged with his murder. The family later said they never imagined Pedro could be responsible. While the trial was emotionally draining, they expressed relief when justice was served and Bravo was sentenced to life in prison.
Claudia and Carlos Aguilar Are Helping the Community in Their Own Way Today
Carlos and Claudia Aguilar have carried the memory of their beloved son Christian in every step they’ve taken since his passing. In recognition of Christian’s academic journey, the University of Florida’s College of Engineering awarded them an honorary In Memoriam degree. In his memory, they also established The Christian Aguilar Search & Rescue Foundation and have dedicated themselves to supporting families of missing persons and aiding in coordinated search efforts.
Carlos Aguilar, who earned his degree in Social Communication–Journalism from UNIVALLE in 1987, previously worked in property management and real estate. Since 2021, he has continued in that field, and in June 2023, he joined Horotech Inc. as a CAM (Community Association Manager) Licensed Manager, a role where he oversees residential communities, handling maintenance, administrative work, and resident support. Claudia Milena Aguilar Gallego, a devoted homemaker, pours much of her time and energy into the foundation’s mission and offers emotional and logistical support to families in crisis. Their two loyal dogs are more than just pets; they actively accompany Carlos and Claudia in search and rescue initiatives and have become symbols of Christian’s enduring presence.
Though the void left by Christian’s loss can never be filled, the Aguilars strive to embrace life and healing. They are deeply spiritual people and often draw strength from their faith. They have taken small steps toward moments of peace, like a memorable vacation to South Beach, time with extended relatives, and meaningful traditions that honor Christian. Through it all, they have discovered that love, even in grief, can be transformative. Carlos and Claudia have chosen to walk it hand in hand. Whether it’s through foundation work, quiet family dinners, or moments of reflection, Christian remain at the center of their hearts. His memory fuels their purpose and unites them with others experiencing loss.
Alex Aguilar Loves His Work as a Veterinarian
Just like his older brother, Alex Aguilar, who also attended the University of Florida, his true passion always lay in working with animals. Determined to turn that love into a career, he later enrolled at The Royal Veterinary College, where he pursued veterinary medicine with dedication. Now based in Miami, Florida, near his parents, Carlos and Claudia, Alex works as a veterinarian and lives a more private life. Though he stays out of the spotlight, it’s clear in the rare glimpses shared by the family that Christian’s memory remains close to his heart. It is a bond that time has not dimmed. Alex often reflects on the deep relationship he shared with his brother and carries that love with him. A devoted soccer fan and a proud supporter of the Florida Gators, Alex finds comfort in familiar traditions.
Read More: Pedro Bravo: What Happened to Christian Aguilar’s Killer?
