A Father’s Hidden Life
Eduardo Escobedo Sr., a.k.a. “El Mago,” went from the slums of East Los Angeles to become the Sinaloa cartel’s leading cannabis distributor in California. He earned his nickname, which means “The Magician,” for disappearing bales of marijuana by the ton.
A Violent End
Deputies discovered Escobedo’s body on Thanksgiving morning in 2023 in an industrial part of the city close to Compton. He had been shot dead at 39. His death sparked speculation over possible cartel involvement or other rivalries.
A Son’s New Path
Escobedo has nine children. His eldest son, Eddie Escobedo Jr., now 24, remembers his father as a family man with expensive tastes. Eddie only found out later about his father’s blood ties to the drug trade.
From Narco World to Hibachi Grills
Having spent nearly five years in prison for drug distribution and money laundering, Escobedo Sr. swore to his family he was done with the narco life. He started a successful chain of food trucks and hibachi grill restaurants, including “Benihibachi” and “Besthibachi.” Despite whispers of money laundering, his businesses continued to thrive, posting $12 million in income in his third year out of prison.
A Legacy of Ambition
Eddie remembers his dad wanting to be wealthy and successful. He wanted money in his pockets, and he worked for it, not just fantasized about it. Eddie is following in his father’s footsteps, continuing the hibachi restaurant business in hopes of creating a new family legacy.
