Rafael Luján, a Cuban native, was arrested on Tuesday on first-degree murder charges, months after his wife's death from a cocaine overdose, according to authorities. The Hialeah Police Department's arrest report states that 37-year-old Luján provided the cocaine that led to his wife's urgent hospitalization, where she passed away four days later.
Shortly before 12:30 a.m. on May 28, officers responded to the couple's residence on the 3500 block of West 89th Place following a report of an unconscious woman, as noted in a document cited by Local10 News. Emergency personnel from Hialeah Fire and Rescue promptly transported the victim to Palmetto General Hospital.
At the couple's home, police discovered a small plastic bag containing a white powder, which tested positive for cocaine. A blood sample taken from the victim also tested positive for the substance. The woman, whose name is not disclosed in the police report, was pronounced dead on June 1.
The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner's Office determined the cause of death to be acute intoxication from a combination of cocaine and ethanol. The report asserts that Luján provided the drug to his wife, leading to her demise. "Based on the fact that the defendant's illegal distribution of cocaine to the victim resulted in her death, the defendant was arrested and charged accordingly," the document states.
In addition to the first-degree murder charge related to cocaine, Luján faces another charge for possession of the narcotic. He is currently held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK) and appeared in court this Wednesday. Judge Mindy Glazer ruled that he should remain in custody without bail.
The Miami Herald revealed that Luján submitted a written plea of not guilty through his defense attorney at the Miami-Dade County Public Defender's Office. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 28.
Key Details on the Hialeah Cocaine Overdose Case
What charges does Rafael Luján face?
Rafael Luján is charged with first-degree murder related to cocaine and possession of the narcotic.
What was the cause of the victim's death?
The victim's death was caused by acute intoxication from a combination of cocaine and ethanol.
Where is Rafael Luján currently detained?
Rafael Luján is being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK) without bail.