Miguel Enrique Salguero-Olivares from Durham, North Carolina, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, Assistant Chief of Police Celisa Lehew, who has led the investigation for six years, announced at a news conference.
The state crime lab matched Salguero-Olivares’ DNA to DNA found at the crime scene, NC Attorney General Josh Stein said at the news conference. “This case underscores the importance of DNA,” Stein said.
She added: “In some communities, they face murder rates 10 times higher than the national average. Too often these cases and these women do not get the attention they deserve.”
Salguero-Olivares is being held at the Durham County Jail without bond, according to the Durham County Sheriff’s Office. CNN is working to determine if Salguero-Olivares has an attorney.
Hedgepeth’s body was found September 7, 2012. “Her tragic death shook our community to its core, and we continue to feel the impact of her incredible spirit today,” UNC-Chapel Hill said in a statement following the announcement.
According to the university, Hedgepeth was an active member of the Carolina Indian Circle, Unheard Voices and served as an American Indian Center volunteer.
Salguero-Olivares’ first court appearance is scheduled for September 21 at the Durham County Courthouse, according to the Durham County Sheriff’s Office.
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