Additional Coverage:
In a tragic case, a suspect has been apprehended in the murder of Mercedes Vega, a 22-year-old woman found deceased in a burning car in Arizona.
Sencere Hayes, 22, was arrested in Tennessee on November 11th and is facing charges, including first-degree murder. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office are collaborating to extradite Hayes back to Arizona.
An autopsy revealed Vega had sustained blunt force trauma, a gunshot wound to the arm, and bleach in her throat. Her family reported that she was found in someone else’s car while her own was located near her Tempe apartment.
Vega was an exotic dancer and her family described her as a gifted singer and a diligent student who excelled academically. She had a passion for swimming and violin. Her obituary highlighted her compassion and loving spirit.