Kidnappers kill ex-Cubs catcher's brother

updated 4:57 a.m. ET Dec. 3, 2008

CARACAS, Venezuela - The brother of major league catcher Henry Blanco has been killed in Venezuela.

Police believe that 39-year-old Carlos Simon Blanco was murdered by kidnappers after they abducted him on Sunday in Guarenas, a suburb of Caracas.

Police found the victim's bullet-riddled body on Monday.

Authorities believe the kidnappers were seeking ransom for Blanco's release, according to a statement released on Tuesday by Venezuela's Attorney General's Office.

Kidnapping and murder are becoming more frequent in Venezuela. Over 13,000 homicides were reported last year, making Venezuela one of Latin America's most dangerous countries.

The victim's brother, Henry Blanco, played catcher for the Chicago Cubs last year. He is currently a free agent.

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