### Man Posing as Utility Worker Charged with Murder in Rochester Hills

A Dearborn man accused of impersonating a DTE Energy worker to gain access to a home in Rochester Hills, where he allegedly murdered a 72-year-old man and restrained a woman, has been formally charged with murder. Carlos Jose Hernandez, 37, was apprehended in Shreveport, Louisiana, over the weekend and faces charges of felony murder and two counts of unlawful imprisonment.

Hernandez allegedly killed Hussein Murray at Murray's home on Newcastle Drive on October 11, 2024. According to Oakland County prosecutors, Hernandez and an unidentified accomplice approached the home the night before, claiming to be DTE Energy representatives checking on a gas leak. The couple declined to let them inside after speaking through a Ring camera. However, the suspects returned the next morning and were subsequently let into the residence.

Inside, the suspects reportedly had Murray sign a document purportedly from DTE before leading him into the basement. When they emerged, Murray did not accompany them. The intruders then tied up Murray's wife using duct tape and demanded money and jewelry. After searching the home for about 20 minutes, they left with the woman's phone and watch.

Following the suspects' departure, the woman contacted 911, believing her husband had been abducted. Upon their arrival, deputies discovered Murray's body in the basement, though the exact cause of death was unclear at the time due to the severity of his injuries.

If convicted, Hernandez could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The charge of unlawful imprisonment carries a maximum sentence of 15 years and a fine up to $20,000. Authorities reported that the suspects fled the scene in an older-model white pickup truck adorned with a DTE Energy sign.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. A reward up to $2,000 is being offered for details leading to an arrest. Callers will remain anonymous.

DTE Energy advises customers to always ask for photo ID from anyone claiming to represent the company and to call DTE at 800-477-4747 to confirm the worker's identity if in doubt. If the person refuses to show ID or acts suspiciously, it is recommended to contact 911 immediately.