PHOENIX — The man accused of murdering Mercedes Vega has been extradited to Arizona to face his alleged crimes. Sencere Patrick Hayes, 22, is facing a first-degree murder charge for the gruesome murder that happened in April 2023.
Court records show Hayes was indicted by a grand jury in Maricopa County on November 8 and was arrested in his hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, three days later. Officials in Tennessee said he was already in custody on separate charges there.
Court documents show Hayes is also facing charges of kidnapping, armed robbery and auto theft. After he was extradited to Arizona, he made his initial appearance before a judge Monday morning.
“This crime is a crime of violence and resulted in a horrific death," said Kirsten Valenzuela, Assistant Bureau Chief of the Capital Litigation Unit at the Maricopa County Attorney's Office.
Vega was last seen in surveillance footage from her Tempe apartment in April 2023. Her parents said she was kidnapped moments later. A medical examiner's report reveals she had blunt force trauma, was shot, and had bleach poured down her throat. She was ultimately left inside a burning car on the side of the I-10 freeway near Tonopah.
A 911 caller reported seeing the vehicle on fire and a person standing near the car but did not provide any additional information.
Valenzuela asked the judge to seal records in Hayes' case as Vega's death remains an active investigation being handled by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, so it remains unclear how officials were led to Hayes. More arrests are expected in the case, but Valenzuela said evidence presented to the grand jury was strong.
Erika and Tom Pillsbury, Vega's parents, released a statement in response to Hayes' extradition.
"We were surprised to see this morning on the news that this monster had arrived in Arizona. We were aware he was not fighting extradition, but we were not told when that would happen. However, we are relieved that he is no longer on the streets. We are looking forward to him facing the consequences for the cold blooded, horrific and violent death of our daughter. A small amount of fear has been lifted for all the young people of ASU and this community. We have been told more arrests are imminent. We encourage everyone to continue to stay vigilant and vocal, sharing Mercedes story. We thank the media, the community, law enforcement and the people who tirelessly fought for justice for Mercedes Marianna Vega.
This fight is not over, it’s just beginning! She was strong, brave and beautiful. We want to continue to emulate every thing she stood for, as we face this long journey. Mercedes Marianna Vega MATTERED! Let’s continue to advocate for her and demand justice. We love you Mercedes!"
Vega's family and friends fiercely advocated for justice for the 22-year-old young woman. They were fearful her case would go cold so they routinely spoke out on social media and held walks and protests in Vega's name.
During Monday's hearing, the state asked for Hayes to be held on a $2 million cash bond. The judge asked Hayes what he thought about those conditions.
"I just feel like that's unconstitutional," Hayes replied.
The judge sided with the state and held Hayes on a $2 million cash-only bond.
As sheriff's officials continue to investigate the heinous case, questions about motive and additional suspects still loom large.
Vega was the victim of an armed robbery years before her murder. However, at the time of her death, she was still aiding in the prosecution of the defendant in that case. MCSO has declined to comment on whether the cases are connected.
“This arrest is a testament to our detectives’ and law enforcement partners' unwavering dedication and commitment to ensuring justice for Mercedes Vega and her loved ones. While there is still much work to be done, in collaboration with state, local and federal partners, we hope this arrest brings Mercedes’ family one step closer to finding closure from this horrific crime," said Maricopa County Sheriff Russ Skinner.
Hayes is due back in court on December 4.