SBI agent explains delay in identifying suspect in Faith Hedgepeth murder

Jurors in Durham heard testimony from an SBI agent about the lengthy investigation into Faith Hedgepeth's murder, highlighting the challenges posed by the passage of time, according to ABC11 WTVD.

The agent explained that DNA samples were collected from hundreds of people connected to or living in the apartment complex where Hedgepeth was killed, but factors like fading evidence, disappearing surveillance footage, and changing witness memories complicated the process.

Witness Eldis Cordero Ordonez testified that he worked with the suspect, Miguel Salguero Olivares, at Outback Steakhouse but did not socialize with him outside work, citing differences in lifestyle and expressing fear about testifying due to family connections.

Ordonez also recounted a recent call from Olivares' mother, who told him to expect a subpoena and urged him to tell the truth, a moment noted by the courtroom gallery where she appeared to nod in agreement.

Another witness, Luiz Alfonso Lainez Lopez, who lived in the same apartment complex as Hedgepeth and her roommate, also testified during the trial.

The trial continues as jurors hear more evidence related to the years-long investigation into the murder of Faith Hedgepeth.