After a nearly three-month-long search, SFPD announced that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the June killing of 28-year-old cosmetologist Steven "Eriq" Escalon. 45-year-old James Rickleffs was arrested on Sunday under suspicion of murder. According to Lt. Hector Sainez, who heads up the SFPD's homicide unit, Rickleffs and Escalon met at a Castro bar early on the morning of June 12, and shared a taxi back to Escalon's home in Diamond Heights. 28-year-old Escalon was found dead, bound and gagged, around 6 p.m. that evening. Police also discovered that electronics and financial documents had been taken from his home.

Multiple witnesses gave a description of the man they identified leaving the bar with Escalon, and one identified him as Rickleffs. Items belonging to Escalon were also found in Rickleffs' possession, and police allege that they have forensic evidence linking him to the crime as well. Police chief Greg Suhr also noted the resemblance between Rickleffs and the composite sketch released by SFPD in early August. According to Suhr, the lack of homicides in SF in August allowed investigators to spend more time looking into the case, ultimately leading to an arrest.

Police are looking for anyone who may have information on Rickleffs and his whereabouts in recent months. Tipsters can phone Sgt. Scott Warnke or Inspectors Daniel Dedet, Kevin Jones or Robert Valverde at the homicide unit at (415) 553-1145. Anonymous tips can also be left at (415) 575-4444 or sent by text message to TIP411.

Previously:
Have You Seen This Guy? Wanted In Connection With Diamond Heights Homicide
Diamond Heights Homicide
[BCN/Appeal]