PONTIAC, Mich. — Oakland County Prosecutor Karen D. McDonald has charged a Lincoln Park woman in connection with the robbery and murder of Rochester Hills resident Hussein “Sam” Murray, expanding accountability in a case that previously resulted in two life sentences.
Prosecutors charged Amanda Ileana Hernandez, 34, with Conspiracy to Commit First-Degree Home Invasion, Accessory After the Fact, and Conspiracy to Commit False Impersonation of a Utility Worker. Authorities say Hernandez played an active role in planning and covering up the crime that led to Murray’s death.
The charges carry the following potential penalties under Michigan law:
- Conspiracy to Commit First-Degree Home Invasion: up to 20 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine
- Accessory After the Fact: up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine
- Conspiracy to Commit False Impersonation of a Utility Worker: up to 2 years in prison and/or a $1,000 fine
According to investigators, on October 11, 2024, Hernandez’s husband, Carlos Hernandez, and Joshua Zuazo posed as DTE Energy workers to gain entry into Murray’s Rochester Hills home. Once inside, the men robbed and murdered Murray. Both were later convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison.
An ongoing investigation determined that Amanda Hernandez was not merely aware of the crime, but actively involved in its preparation and aftermath, prosecutors said.
“Sam Murray was a beloved father and husband. His family continues to grieve this loss,” Prosecutor McDonald said in a statement. “I’m grateful to the investigators who continued to pursue everyone involved in this horrible crime. We will continue fighting for justice for the Murray family.”
Court records indicate that text messages exchanged in the days leading up to the murder provide insight into the defendant’s mindset, expectations, and awareness surrounding the crime.
In messages dated Oct. 1 and Oct. 9, 2024, the defendant discussed financial struggles and future plans, including hopes that upcoming money would allow them to purchase a home. In one exchange, she expressed a desire to “get enough money to buy a house,” mentioning goals such as owning a home, having no rent, and a nice backyard. Prosecutors argue these messages help establish motive tied to financial gain.
Additional messages from Oct. 10, 2024 — the day of and the night before the alleged murder — show ongoing communication with individuals involved in the scheme. In one exchange, the defendant discussed preparations and timing, including references to “grabbing weed” and getting a truck before returning later.
Later that night, messages show the defendant asking whether they would be “going this late,” followed by a warning advising them to leave if anything seemed strange. Prosecutors say these communications demonstrate awareness of the planned activity and concern about detection.
Investigators allege the messages collectively support their claim that the defendant was not a passive bystander, but someone who anticipated financial benefit, knew the timing and movements of those involved, and communicated guidance before and after the crime.
Prosecutors emphasize that while the two men who carried out the home invasion and murder are already serving life sentences, the text messages helped establish the defendant’s alleged role in planning, facilitating, and covering up the crime, leading to the current charges.
As with all criminal cases, the charges are accusations, and Hernandez is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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