A 35-year-old New Jersey man is facing first-degree murder charges after allegedly strangling his girlfriend to death in October as she tried to end their relationship. Authorities say Andres Calvachi-Paz killed 28-year-old Dayana Chisaguano Maleza inside their Newark apartment following a heated argument.
According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, after the alleged slaying, Calvachi-Paz drove around for several hours with Maleza’s body before dumping it in a wooded area near the Cedar Hill Golf Course in Livingston.
To cover his tracks, he is accused of engaging in an “elaborate scheme,” which included sending messages and photos from the victim’s cellphone to make it appear she was still alive.
Maleza’s body was discovered on Tuesday, October 7, by a golf course employee chasing deer. Calvachi-Paz was taken into custody later that day and is charged with murder, disturbing human remains, and theft.
He is currently being held without bond. Authorities say Calvachi-Paz admitted to the killing after his arrest.
Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will remain confidential.
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