A suspect has been arrested and charged with the murder of a 19-year-old woman from Maryland.
US Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported that 35-year-old Hugo Hernandez Mendes, described as an “illegal alien from Guatemala,” faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the death of Dacara Thompson.
Hernandez Mendes, originally from Guatemala, was in the U.S. unlawfully. He had previously been detained by US Parks police in April but was let go in relation to a DUI incident, as confirmed by officials.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence where Hernandez Mendes lived with family. A cousin, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed that investigators thoroughly examined the space and reportedly discovered blood.
According to local police, Thompson was reported missing on August 23 and her body was found on August 31.
A spokesman for the Department of Homeland Security stated that in May 2022, Hernandez Mendes had been arrested for failing to control his vehicle properly, leading to a collision.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed deep sorrow over the “tragic loss of Dakara Thompson, taken from us by acts of senseless violence,” describing her as a “bright light” for the country.
Moore continued, thanking the dedicated law enforcement officers from both the Maryland State Police and Prince George’s County Police Department for their efforts throughout the investigation.
“Dacara was dedicated to public service and had raised her hand to join a patriotic Maryland initiative,” he added.
