A man from Dearborn has been formally accused of a heinous crime, posing as a utility worker to access and then murder a Rochester Hills resident, according to authorities. Joshua Zuazo, 39, is facing charges of felony murder and two counts of unlawful imprisonment in the death of 72-year-old Hussein Murray. Following his arrest on Monday in Plymouth Township, the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office has made clear their intention to aggressively prosecute. Oakland County Sheriff's Office also confirmed Zuazo's charges, remarking on the efforts of law enforcement in swiftly advancing the case.
Prosecutors allege that Zuazo, alongside another suspect Carlos Jose Hernandez, 37, also from Dearborn, gained entry to the victim's home by feigning to be workers from DTE Energy, a ruse they used to eventually commit a brutal act that would leave Murray dead and his wife bound and assaulted. According to CBS News, on the night of October 10, the pair was turned away but returned the following day to not only be let inside but to also perpetrate violence and rob the couple.
The incident has sparked outrage and a strong response from officials. "Impersonating utility workers - people we need and rely on, is despicable and threatens the sense of security of everyone in our community," stated Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, as FOX 2 Detroit reports. Tips on how to verify the legitimacy of utility workers have been circulated by DTE Energy, advising residents to request identification and to contact customer service if there's any hesitation.
Following their escape from the crime scene in a white pickup truck adorned with a DTE sign, Hernandez was apprehended in Shreveport, Louisiana, and is awaiting extradition back to Michigan. Zuazo was subsequently apprehended in Plymouth Township. As The Detroit News detailed, Sheriff Michael Bouchard praised the collaborative efforts that led to the rapid arrests of both suspects, thus concluding an urgent manhunt.
