Two Charged in Brutal Murder of 72-Year-Old Detroit-Area Jeweler Hussein Murray

ROCHESTER HILLS, Michigan — Two men have been charged in connection with the home invasion and murder of Hussein Murray, a 72-year-old jeweler and owner of Gold & Glitter Jewelry in Hamtramck. The suspects allegedly utilized a deceptive utility worker ruse to gain access to the victim's home.

The incident occurred on Friday, October 11, 2024, when the suspects, identified as Carlos Jose Hernandez, 37, of Dearborn, and Joshua Zuazo, arrived Murray's home. Posing as workers from DTE Energy, they claimed they needed to check for gas leaks. Once inside, the suspects physically assaulted the couple, binding Murray's 72-year-old wife and killing Murray in the basement before searching the residence for valuable jewelry and cash.

Murray's wife, who was held unlawfully during the ordeal, was able to call 911 after the suspects fled the scene. Investigators quickly established that Murray was targeted due to his business ownership. Hernandez was later apprehended in Louisiana and extradited to Michigan to face charges, while Zuazo was arrested shortly after during a traffic stop.

Justice Served in Oakland County Court

Following a highly publicized trial, both suspects were convicted of first-degree felony murder and unlawful imprisonment. On December 9, 2025, an Oakland County judge sentenced both men to life in prison without the possibility of parole, bringing a sense of closure to the victim's family and the local business community.