In a tragic turn of events, authorities have named a second suspect in connection with the killing of 72-year-old jeweler Hussein Murray, who was found dead in his Rochester Hills home after being deceived by two men posing as utility workers. Joshua Zuazo, 39, of Dearborn, was named as a suspect on Thursday and is currently in custody following his arrest earlier this week. Zuazo’s arrest marks a critical development in the case that has shaken the local community, as details continue to emerge about the horrifying crime that took place on October 10, 2024.
Hussein Murray’s life was brutally cut short when two men, pretending to be DTE technicians, gained entry to his home under the guise of checking for a gas leak. Initially, Murray and his wife were cautious, speaking to the suspects through their doorbell camera and denying them entry. But the following day, the men returned, convincing Murray to let them inside by posing as legitimate workers. In a chilling sequence of events, Murray escorted the men to his basement, where they later bound him with duct tape. As they proceeded to ransack the home, Murray’s wife was also tied up and assaulted as the suspects demanded to know where their valuables were hidden. Although she survived the attack, her husband was discovered dead in the basement, his wrists and ankles bound in the same cruel fashion.
Zuazo’s capture came swiftly, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, and other law enforcement agencies. He was apprehended without incident in Plymouth Township and is currently being held in the Oakland County Jail. Zuazo is expected to be arraigned on charges of felony murder and unlawful imprisonment, with his court appearance scheduled for Friday. His alleged accomplice, Carlos Jose Hernandez, also of Dearborn, had been previously named in a warrant and was already in custody in Louisiana, where he faces additional charges related to armed robbery in Ohio.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard commended the collaborative work of his team and multiple agencies for their swift action in capturing both suspects. Bouchard expressed his pride in their ability to move the case forward quickly, ensuring the suspects were taken off the streets and that justice could begin its course. Hernandez was apprehended after being pulled over for speeding in Louisiana, where officers discovered multiple outstanding warrants. He is currently being held at the Caddo Correctional Center, awaiting extradition to Michigan.
The crime itself is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who exploit trust and impersonate utility workers. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald condemned the act as “despicable,” stating that it undermines the community’s sense of safety. She emphasized her office’s commitment to working closely with law enforcement to ensure justice is served for the Murray family. McDonald’s words echo the sentiments of many who have been left shaken by the tragedy, as the community mourns the loss of a respected jeweler and beloved family man.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and to take precautions when approached by anyone claiming to be a utility worker. DTE Energy has advised homeowners to always request identification from workers before granting access to their property. If there is ever any doubt, DTE encourages residents to immediately contact their customer service line or call 911 for assistance.
As the legal proceedings move forward, the Murray family and the community at large continue to grapple with the loss of a man who was known for his generosity and kindness. The senseless nature of his death, brought about by individuals who preyed on trust and vulnerability, has left many searching for answers. While the arrests of both suspects bring some relief, the memory of Hussein Murray and the violent act that took his life will leave an indelible mark on all those who knew him.
