A trial is underway for two men accused of pretending to be utility workers before allegedly attacking a couple in their Michigan home. The incident resulted in the death of the 72-year-old husband and left his wife injured.
The trial is taking place in Oakland County. Unusually, two separate juries have been chosen – one for each of the accused men. This allows both men to be tried at the same time, but each jury will make its decision separately.
The case goes back to October 11, 2024. Prosecutors say that the two men, pretending to be from the Detroit utility company DTE, tricked Hussein and Linda Murray into letting them into their home by claiming there was a gas leak.
Hussein went to the basement with the men to check the gas lines but never returned. He was later found dead with his hands and feet tied up. Linda was also attacked upstairs.
Linda said that one of the men demanded money and jewelry. When she asked about her husband, she was hit in the face before being tied up. She also saw blood on the other man when he came up from the basement.
The medical examiner said that Hussein died from being hit hard and possibly strangled.
The men allegedly spent about 20 minutes searching the house before leaving with Hussein’s phone and watch. Linda managed to free herself and call for help. The police released security camera footage of the suspects after the attack.
Hussein owned a jewelry store, and prosecutors believe the attack was planned because of his business.
Carlos Jose Hernandez, 37, and Joshua Zuazo, 39, have been charged with murder and unlawful imprisonment. Both have pleaded not guilty. If found guilty, they could face life in prison without parole.
Hernandez’s lawyer claims that he didn’t plan to kill Hussein.
Hussein’s grandson described him as a kind and caring man who had a big impact on his family and community.
The trial is expected to continue for several weeks. Both men are currently in jail.
