Michigan Wife Texted Husband ‘We Can Have a Nice Backyard’ Before He Killed 72-Year-Old Jewelry Store Owner in ‘Big Score’ Robbery, Prosecutors Say

ROCHESTER HILLS, Michigan — Prosecutors say a Michigan man beat and killed a 72-year-old jewelry store owner during a botched home robbery he staged with an accomplice — after receiving text messages of encouragement from his wife about the “big score” they hoped would change their lives.

Wife’s Messages: “We Can Have a Nice Backyard”

According to court testimony and evidence shown during the trial, Carlos Jose Hernandez, 36, and his partner Joshua Zuazo were convicted Friday of first-degree felony murder in the October 2024 killing of Hussein Murray, a respected jeweler from Rochester Hills.

Prosecutors revealed a series of text messages between Hernandez and his wife sent just days before the murder, showing how she cheered on his plan to rob Murray’s home under the guise of checking for gas leaks.

“I hope we get enough money to buy a house,” Hernandez’s wife wrote.
“Our own home,” he replied.
“No rent,” she texted back.
“Yes, if what I feel is here, we gonna be good,” Hernandez said.
“So we can have a nice backyard,” his wife answered.

Oakland County prosecutors said the messages revealed a chilling motivation — a promise of comfort built on an act of violence.

The Deadly Robbery Disguised as a Gas Leak Inspection

Investigators said Hernandez and Zuazo arrived at Murray’s upscale home on October 10, 2024, posing as DTE Energy workers checking for gas leaks. The pair wore reflective vests and carried clipboards branded with DTE logos.

Murray and his wife Linda Murray refused to let them in that day, prompting the men to leave after hearing Linda mention a firearm. But the next morning, the couple returned, and Murray — believing the visit was legitimate — allowed them inside.

Once in the basement, the two men attacked the 72-year-old while his wife was bound with duct tape upstairs. Murray was beaten to death, sustaining multiple fractures to his face and jaw, and a broken bone in his neck, according to the medical examiner.

Linda Murray managed to free herself and call 911. Police body camera footage showed her hands bound as she told officers, “I don’t know where he is — he might be in the basement.”

Murder, Arrests, and Evidence Trail

Hernandez and Zuazo fled the scene in a stolen pickup truck bearing DTE decals, stealing jewelry and cash before escaping. Investigators later recovered Ring camera footage showing the pair at the Murray residence, confirming the ruse.

Hernandez was captured on October 12, 2024, in Louisiana, while Zuazo was arrested two days later in Plymouth Township, Michigan, after Hernandez’s wife cooperated with police and confirmed her husband’s involvement.

Detectives also linked the suspects through receipts showing purchases of duct tape and zip ties used in the home invasion.

During questioning, Hernandez’s wife admitted to texting him the night before the killing:
“Remember what I said, if things get sketchy, GTFO,” she wrote.
“Promise,” Hernandez replied.
“I love you,” she said.
“I love you too. Let me get into work mode,” he answered.
“Wear a mask when you get close.”
“I got it on now,” he said.
“Ok, baby, get your head good.”

Prosecutors said those messages showed premeditation and awareness of the planned crime, though the wife has not been charged.

A Community Still Grieving

Murray owned Gold & Glitter Jewelry, a small business in metro Detroit known for its community presence and craftsmanship. His grandson, who shared his name, posted an emotional tribute on Instagram:
“It is hard to put into words the level of generosity and kindness that my grandfather possessed. His smile could make you feel like the world was yours.”

Both Hernandez and Zuazo will be sentenced on December 9 in Oakland County Circuit Court.

Following the incident, DTE Energy issued a public warning urging customers to verify worker IDs before allowing anyone to enter their homes.

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