by Lanham, Maryland – A body discovered along a highway in Anne Arundel County has been identified as 19-year-old Da’Cara Thompson, a young woman who went missing in late August. Police announced on Friday, September 5, that 35-year-old Hugo Hernandez-Mendez has been arrested and charged in her killing.
Timeline of Thompson’s Disappearance
Thompson, who lived in Lanham, was last seen by her father, Daniel Thompson, on August 22 when she left home around 10 p.m. He texted her later that night, just before midnight, but never received a reply.
According to police, surveillance footage shows Thompson willfully entering a vehicle driven by Hernandez-Mendez in the early hours of August 23. The SUV was later traced to the suspect’s residence in Bowie, about six miles from her home.
Officials believe the homicide occurred inside a bedroom of Hernandez-Mendez’s home, after which Thompson’s body was transported and abandoned along Route 50 in Anne Arundel County.
Body Discovered Along Route 50
On August 31, Maryland State Police located a body in a grassy area off the busy highway. It was later confirmed to be Thompson. The location where she was found was about seven miles from the Bowie home tied to Hernandez-Mendez.
Investigators told reporters the suspect appeared to have acted alone, though the exact motive for the killing remains under investigation.
Suspect Faces Murder Charges
Hernandez-Mendez has been charged with first-degree murder and second-degree murder in connection with Thompson’s death. Authorities said he provided “limited information” during interviews.
He is currently being held without bond and is scheduled for a court hearing on Monday, September 8.
Prince George’s County Police Chief Malik Aziz called the case a “multi-jurisdictional effort” and vowed that detectives will continue working to uncover all details surrounding the killing.
Who Was Da’Cara Thompson?
Thompson graduated from St. Charles High School and worked for a local nonprofit in Prince George’s County. She was also a participant in the Maryland Service Year Option program, which encourages young Marylanders to dedicate time to public service.
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Maryland Governor Wes Moore issued a statement mourning her loss, calling her death “an act of senseless violence.” He added:
“She was a bright light in our state. We will use every tool at our disposal to ensure those responsible are held accountable and honor Da’Cara’s legacy of service.”
Community Reaction
Family members and friends are devastated by the violent loss of Thompson, a young woman described as dedicated, ambitious, and service-driven.
Her father, Daniel Thompson, told CBS Baltimore that the night she disappeared would be the last time he ever communicated with his daughter.
Ongoing Investigation
While police believe Hernandez-Mendez acted alone, questions remain about how he and Thompson crossed paths. Detectives have not yet confirmed whether the two knew each other before the night of August 23.
Officials say more information will be released after the suspect’s upcoming court appearance.
What are your thoughts on this tragic case? Should Maryland strengthen laws around missing persons and early intervention? Share your views in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
