Cops: Arrest in Nev. after N.C. counselor's arson death
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- A 28-year-old man was arrested in Nevada in connection with the death of a college campus counselor whose Charlotte, N.C. apartment was "intentionally" set on fire, reports CBS affiliate WBTV.
Amanda Strous, 27, was pulled from the burning apartment Saturday evening. She later died from her injuries at a hospital. Police have said they're investigating the death as a homicide. Authorities say they believe the blaze was intentionally set while she was inside, the station reports.
Monday afternoon, police said Mathew Thomas Benner, 28, was arrested in Nevada and charged with Strous' murder. He was taken into custody by investigators with the Nye County Sheriff's Office in Nevada, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police and the U.S. Marshals Service. He's expected to be charged with first degree murder and arson, reports the station.
The station reports Benner was found sleeping in his truck outside a hotel. Nye County Sheriff's officials allege Benner confessed to the crime during a police interview, according to the station.
Strous was a student counselor at Central Piedmont Community College, the station reports.
"She helped students plan their academic paths and helped them be successful in their programs of study," the university said Monday. "The college is deeply saddened by Amanda's death. The thoughts and prayers of the college community are with Amanda's family, friends and coworkers."
She was reportedly engaged and set to be married in two months.