LAS VEGAS, N.M. (AP) - A 22-year-old Rainsville man has been arrested on charges of homicide, arson and other counts in the death of another Mora County man who was burned to death earlier this month.
Michael Strand also faces charges of aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and conspiracy in the death of 59-year-old Roberto Mendez of Buena Vista Ranch.
State police responding to a call June 8 found Mendez burned to death and his SUV missing.
The next day, Mora County Undersheriff Tim Marquez spotted a vehicle matching Mendez's on N.M. 518 and stopped it.
State police say Strand was driving.
According to a criminal complaint, he told officers he was being paid $400 to hide the vehicle.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
