(WWJ) A third person has been charged in connection with the death of a man at the hands of some DTE Energy employees impersonators.
Announced Tuesday, Amanda Ileana Hernandez of Lincoln Park has been charged with the following:
- Conspiracy To Commit First Degree Home Invasion, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.
- Accessory After the Fact, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
- Conspiracy to Commit False Impersonation of a Utility Worker, punishable by up to 2 years in prison and/or a $1,000 fine.
Hernandez' husband, Carlos Hernandez, and Joshua Zuazo impersonated DTE workers in October of 2024 to get inside the upscale Rochester Hills home of 72-year-old Hussein "Sam" Murray. They claimed to be checking for a gas leak, but took Murray into the basement.
Murray's wife, who was tied up and duct taped, was eventually able to free herself after the men left and called 911. She told responding Oakland County Sheriff's deputies she believed her husband may have been kidnapped.
As deputies searched the home to make sure it was safe, they found Murray dead in the basement.
Carlos Hernandez and Joshua Zuazo were arrested following an investigation, charged and convicted of murder. Both received life sentences.
According to the Oakland County Prosecutor's office, Amanda Hernandez, 34, played an active role in the planning and cover-up of the crime.
“Sam Murray was a beloved father and husband. His family continues to grieve this loss,” said Prosecutor Karen McDonald, in a statement. “I’m grateful to the investigators who continued to pursue everyone involved in this horrible crime. We will continue fighting for justice for the Murray family.”
Murray owned and operated a jewelry and pawn shop in Hamtramck.