🔺December 22, body of 50-year-old women found in Belleplain State Forest

🔺January 13, the suspect is apprehended in San Diego, California

🔺45-year-old Christopher Blevins of Runnemeade is charged with murder

Credit: Camden County Prosecutor's Office of New Jersey via Facebook
Credit: Camden County Prosecutor's Office of New Jersey via Facebook
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It was a case that gripped our community.

The body of a woman was discovered hidden in a refrigerator in the Belleplain State Forest just before Christmas 2024.

Credit: Google Street View
Credit: Google Street View
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The woman was identified as 50-year-old Laura Hughes of Runnemeade.

Read More: Mystery Surrounds Female Body Discovery At Belleplain State Forest In NJ

A joint statement released today by Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay, New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, and Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey Sutherland has announced that a Runnemeade man has been taken into custody.

Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
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The man, 45-year-old Christopher Blevins, has been charged with first-degree Murder in the death of his girlfriend, 50-year-old Laura Hughes of Runnemede.

An investigation led to charges being filed against Blevins on January 3 that included second-degree desecration of human remains and third-degree hindering apprehension.

On January 13, Blevins was arrested in San Diego where he was being detained in a local correctional facility.

Last week, the man was charged with the murder of Laura Hughes, and he is currently in a California correctional facility where he awaits extradition back to New Jersey.

In a statement released by the Camden County Prosecutor's Office,  New Jersey State Police, Colonel Patrick J. Callahan said,

The pursuit of justice demands unwavering commitment, and this case exemplifies the dedication of every agency involved.  The interagency partnership between the New Jersey State Police Major Crime Unit, the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office was instrumental in uncovering the truth and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. Their relentless efforts and determination have brought us one step closer to justice for Ms. Hughes and her loved ones. While nothing can ever undo the pain of this tragic loss, we hope this outcome brings some measure of peace to her family and all who cared for her.

No motives were given for the crime.

It is not known when Blevins will be brought back to New Jersey.

All suspects are presumed innocent until/unless they found are found guilty in court of law.

Source:  Camden County Prosecutor's Office 

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