Body of missing man found in New Jersey, suspect arrested for murder, police say

The body of a missing person was found in New Jersey and now police say a suspect has been arrested and charged in connection to the victim's murder.

On Jan. 28, detectives began investigating the disappearance of 23-year-old Jonathan Morris II after his vehicle was found abandoned on Archie Platt Road in Hopewell Township, New Jersey, the New Jersey State Police said.

His disappearance was determined to be suspicious in nature.

On Jan. 31, officials determined 21-year-old Miguel Perez was a suspect in the investigation. He was found at his home and was arrested.

Shortly after Perez was arrested, Morris’ remains were found covered in snow about 15 feet from the road on Archie Platt Road, police said.

According to authorities, Perez allegedly shot and killed Morris in his vehicle in Bridgeton on Jan. 28.

After killing Morris, police say Perez drove to Archie Platt Road and discarded the body and abandoned the vehicle. He drove to another residence later on and attempted to dispose of evidence.

Perez was arrested and charged with murder, weapons offenses, desecration of human remains, evidence tampering, hindering, obstruction, escape and receiving stolen property.

He was booked into the Cumberland County Jail.