Police: DNA links 15-year-old rape suspect to Dallas woman's murder

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A DNA test confirms that a 15-year-old serial rape suspect is linked to the murder of a woman in Dallas, according to the Dallas Police Department.

Police said the teenager was arrested last week in connection with a series of aggravated sexual assaults in Dallas and Bossier City, which is near Shreveport, La.

Investigators found evidence suggesting he may also be connected to the death of 23-year-old Maria Ezquerro in her North Dallas apartment two days before his arrest.

Similar to the MO in the rape cases, Ezquerro’s killer approached her door and asked to borrow her phone. She was texting with a friend at the time.

"An unknown individual approached her door and asked if he could use the phone. That unknown male we believe was allowed in the apartment. He was able to get in we believe without forcing his way in,” said DPD Deputy Chief Thomas Castro. “The acquaintance soon lost contact with the victim, which prompted him to call 911. Officers arrived, and they found the victim deceased inside the apartment."

The positive DNA test confirmed investigators’ suspicions, police said.

The teen will remain in custody at the Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center. He is expected to be charged with capital murder.

His name has not been released because he is a juvenile. However, police said they are also working to certify him as an adult.