Dacara Thompson, age 19, was reported missing from Lanham, Maryland, on August 23 after last speaking to her father the previous night. Her vehicle was found the day after with her personal belongings inside, but her phone and key fob were missing

• Dacara Thompson, age 19, was reported missing from Lanham, Maryland, on August 23 after last speaking to her father the previous night. Her vehicle was found the day after with her personal belongings inside, but her phone and key fob were missing.People.com+1The Washington PostNBC4 WashingtonMontgomery’s BIN 99.3

• On August 31, law enforcement discovered a female body in a grassy area off Route 50 in Anne Arundel County, later confirmed to be Dacara Thompson.People.com+1The Washington PostCBS NewsNBC4 WashingtonWTOP News

** Who is the accused?**

• Hugo Hernandez‑Mendez, 35, of Bowie, Maryland, has been arrested and is charged with first- and second-degree murder in connection to her death.People.comNew York PostThe Washington PostNews/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJMWTOP News

• Authorities allege Thompson willingly entered a black SUV early on August 23, which took her to Hernandez‑Mendez’s residence in Bowie, where investigators believe the killing occurred.People.comNews/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJMWTOP NewsCBS News

• Evidence suggests the murder likely took place in his bedroom, and he had access to both the SUV and the residence.People.comNews/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJMWTOP News

• Hernandez‑Mendez, who is undocumented, had a prior DUI arrest in April. An ICE detainer has been issued, and he is currently held without bond.New York PostMontgomery’s BIN 99.3WTOP NewsThe Washington Post

** Court appearance & status:**

• The accused appeared in court on Monday, September 8, for a bond hearing. He will remain behind bars as he is being held without bond pending further proceedings.WTOP NewsWe Got This Covered

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