Hugo Placente

Soon, Calandrino mentioned that his old friend, Hugo Placente, lived next door to the Germans. Villarrubia immediately saw the opening he had been waiting for.

Villarrubia

Feeling that he now had a reason to visit Placente, Villarrubia drove to his home again the following day.

Villarrubia

Villarrubia was elated.

Villarrubia

Treading carefully, Villarrubia decided to press Placente on what he knew of the Germans.

Villarrubia

During this visit, Villarrubia also befriended a young couple who worked on Placente’s ranch. They were friendly and welcomed Villarrubia, who saw that their house was situated on the edge of the property and offered clear views of La Solita.

In April 2004, pleased with his research, Villarrubia returned to Santiago to report on his findings.