Horrific Arizona murder case involving bleach, torture, and a burned car gets long-awaited arrest update

Sencere Hayes has been arrested in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in connection to the brutal murder of Mercedes Vega in Arizona. Vega, a 22-year-old part-time adult dancer with aspirations to become a personal trainer, was found dead in the back of a burning Chevy Malibu in April 2023, about 50 miles west of Phoenix. Her body showed signs of severe abuse, including blunt force trauma, gunshot wounds, and smoke inhalation, indicating she was likely alive when the fire started. Her body had been doused in bleach, further complicating the investigation.

Vega was last seen in a parking garage security camera footage, where she appeared to be looking at her phone, possibly engaged in a FaceTime conversation. She had texted her mother shortly before her disappearance, expressing a feeling of unease and a sense that she shouldn’t go out. Despite this, Vega had plans to meet friends or go to work, but she was never heard from again after that.

The burning car was discovered the following day, but it wasn’t her vehicle, and the person who owned the Malibu remains unclear. The authorities didn’t release much information at the time about potential suspects or motives. It was later confirmed that blood evidence was found in the garage, and investigators believe Vega fought back during the attack.

With Hayes’ arrest, authorities are working to extradite him to Arizona for trial. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that more arrests could be made, as the investigation remains active. Vega’s mother, Erika, has spoken out publicly, expressing her grief and anger, but also finding solace in knowing that Hayes will face justice for his role in her daughter’s tragic death.