Full Breakdown
FBI Seeks NYC Volleyball Coach Edgar Lazaro Castillo for Sexual Exploitation of Minors
4/18/2026, 5:21:28 AM
Core Event: Allegations Against Edgar Lazaro Castillo
The FBI is actively searching for Edgar Lazaro Castillo, a 36-year-old volleyball coach associated with the NYC Impact Volleyball Club, who is accused of sexually exploiting minors for over 15 years. The agency has indicated that Castillo may have fled the country, prompting a nationwide alert for potential victims to come forward. The investigation was initiated following a complaint from a player who alleged that Castillo assaulted him during a tournament in Boston in March 2026.
Background & Context: History of Allegations
Castillo's coaching career includes approximately ten years at the NYC Impact Volleyball Club, where he is believed to have primarily targeted minors involved in volleyball leagues from 2010 until March 2026. Prior to his tenure at Impact, Castillo was fired from the Legacy Volleyball Club in 2014 due to allegations of inappropriate behavior, including texting and communicating with minors on social media platforms. Sources indicate that these past incidents contributed to the current investigation.
Key Figures & Groups: Edgar Lazaro Castillo and Volleyball Organizations
Edgar Lazaro Castillo, originally from Mexico and raised in The Bronx, has also coached at John Jay College for Criminal Justice and the private all-boys Catholic school Xavier in Manhattan. The NYC Impact Volleyball Club and the Legacy Volleyball Club have not publicly commented on the allegations. The Garden Empire Volleyball Association (GEVA), which oversees local volleyball clubs, also did not respond to inquiries regarding Castillo.
Official Statements & Responses
During a recent phone call with parents of players from the NYC Impact Volleyball Club, the FBI confirmed the ongoing investigation and offered counseling services to any affected players. They provided parents with the contact information of agents handling the case and encouraged victims to report any interactions with Castillo, particularly through social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram.
Criticism & Opposition: Community Reactions
The community has expressed outrage and concern over the allegations against Castillo. Parents, coaches, and referees have reportedly been discussing the situation extensively on social media, reflecting a strong desire for accountability and support for potential victims. The lack of responses from the volleyball clubs and governing bodies has also drawn criticism from concerned individuals.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the FBI has confirmed the investigation into Castillo, there are no public records indicating whether he has been formally charged with any crimes at this time. The extent of the allegations and the number of potential victims remain unclear, as the investigation is ongoing.
Verbatim Quotes
“When this thing broke on the FBI, parents, coaches, refs and kids have been blowing up social media and the phone lines talking about him.” — Anonymous Coach
“The FBI believes he primarily targeted minors who participated in volleyball leagues between the timeframe of 2010 and March 2026 in multiple states, primarily New York City,” — FBI Statement
