Key Details from the Investigation
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Suspect Arrested: Hugo Hernandez‑Mendez, age 35, from Bowie, has been arrested and charged with first- and second-degree murder in connection with Thompson’s death.ABC NewsWTOP NewsPeople.com
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Timeline of Events:
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Last seen: Surveillance footage shows Thompson willingly getting into a black SUV in the early morning of August 23, believed to be driven by Hernandez‑Mendez. The vehicle then went to a residence in Bowie.WTOP NewsPeople.com
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Body discovered: On August 31, a body later identified as Thompson was found in a grassy area off Route 50 in Anne Arundel County.ABC NewsWTOP NewsPeople.com
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Scene of the crime: Authorities allege that the killing occurred in the bedroom of the Bowie home where Hernandez‑Mendez resides. Evidence collected from the residence supports this.WTOP NewsPeople.comPG Police
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Legal and Immigration Context:
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Hernandez‑Mendez is currently being held without bond and may face further immigration action.
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Officials noted he is living in the U.S. without proper legal status, and an ICE detainer has since been issued.WTOP NewsThe Washington Post
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Cause of Death: The official cause of death has not yet been disclosed, though investigators anticipate it will be ruled a homicide after further examination by the medical examiner.WTOP NewsPeople.comPG Police
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No Additional Suspects: At this time, investigators have not identified any additional suspects.WTOP News
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Dacara Thompson, 19, of Lanham |
| Missing Since | August 23, last seen getting into a black SUV |
| Body Found | August 31, off Route 50 in Anne Arundel County |
| Suspect | Hugo Hernandez‑Mendez, 35, of Bowie |
| Charges | First- and second-degree murder |
| Crime Scene | Allegedly a bedroom in Bowie home |
| Bond Status | Held without bond; ICE detainer issued |
| Cause of Death | Pending, expected to be homicide |
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