Hudson County officials say that there is no indication that a woman killed while out for a jog in a Jersey City park knew her alleged attacker.
The body of Carolina Cano, 45, was found in the lake in Jersey City’s Lincoln Park last week. Authorities have now charged 33-year-old Jorge Rios with her murder.
"Our understanding is that it was strangers. He frequented the park and we feel comfortable we have the right person based on his statement,” says Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop.
Police divers were in the park’s lake Monday afternoon. It is believed that they were looking for personal belongings that may have belonged to Cano.
Cano lived in a home just blocks from the park. Friends say Cano regularly ran in the park before going to church on Sundays. Police say surveillance cameras show her entering the park at 5:30 a.m. Sunday, March 24. Her body was found in the water two hours later.
Police patrols have been increased in the park following the killing. But some Jersey City residents who walk in the park often say that they remain concerned.
"I mean not me, but for a woman to be running alone, that's a concern,” says resident Ramon Roman.
Not much known about Rios other than that he lived close to the park. Rios may have been living in the United States illegally, according to published reports. But News 12 New Jersey has not been able to independently verify that claim.
Rios was charged with murder, kidnapping and sexual assault. He is expected to be in court Thursday.