Tucson Police Make Arrest In Connection With Former U of A Professor Murder Case
Suleika Acosta KOLD News 13 Reporter
A major break for Tucson police in the murder investigation of a former University of Arizona professor. Tucson police have arrested Marco Chavez, in connection with the death of Dr. Mac Hadley.
From Tucson to Nogales, Arizona. The investigation of Dr. Mac Hadley's murder led authorities to the man they believe is responsible for his death. And just three days after Tucson authorities found Hadley's body, they believe his killer is in custody.
"We are elated that the killer is behind bars," says Sgt. Decio Hopffer, with Tucson Police Department. Early Saturday, Tucson Police arrested 31-year-old Marco Chavez in Nogales, Arizona. There, police found some of Dr. Hadley's property including his missing 1996 Toyota Camry.
On Wednesday firefighters found Dr. Hadley's body -- he had been burned and so had his home. Tucson Police say there is no connection between Chavez and Hadley. They believe this was a random act of violence and Chavez is the only suspect they were after. "It appears that the victim interrupted a burglary in progress and was subsequently killed," explains Sgt. Hopffer.
Police are careful not to reveal too much information about what led them to Chavez so the upcoming case is not compromised. Chavez has been convicted of burglary, possession of stolen property and theft in the past. He is being held at the Santa Cruz County Jail. He is charged with first degree murder.
