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Accused Killer In Sara Hudson Homicide Was Also A Lyft Driver

DALLAS, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) - Accused killer Glen Richter, 49, who's currently in custody for the death of a woman found in her burning SUV, was also a Lyft driver.

Sara Hudson, 22, was found dead in the back of a burning SUV in the 5600 block of Alta Drive Monday evening. She died from a gunshot wound to the head, and smoke inhalation was a contributing factor.

Lyft sent CBS 11 News the following statement about Richter's alleged connection to the recent college graduate's grisly murder.

"Safety is fundamental to Lyft. While this tragic incident did not involve Lyft, our hearts go out to the family and friends affected. Immediately upon hearing these allegations, we deactivated the driver and are assisting law enforcement with their investigation."

Richter was booked into Lew Sterrett Jail early Thursday morning on a capital murder charge.

According to the arrest warrant, surveillance video showed Hudson getting out of her SUV before Richter approached her, then forced her back into the vehicle. Police were able to gather fingerprints from two of the vehicle's doors, which led them to Richter.

Police sources said Hudson was carjacked at gunpoint and forced to an ATM by Richter. Hudson's body was partially clothed when she was found, leading police to say Richter sexually assaulted her. 

According to her family, Hudson just graduated from the University of Arkansas and celebrating her birthday that fateful Monday evening.

They're devastated by her killing.

Her aunt, Angela Aragon, told CBS 11 News, "I want to know what evil entered into her life. What cut this brilliant girl's career and life so short? Never did she wake up on that day think that this would be her last day on earth. Whoever preyed upon her they preyed upon a beautiful human being."

A heart-shaped ring of roses was placed at the site of the grisly murder scene.

Hudson's family released the following statement on her death:

We wish to express our sincere gratitude to all who have so lovingly surrounded us at this time of loss and sadness. The thoughts and prayers of so many have touched us more than we can ever express. Our thanks and appreciation go out to Detective Frank Serra, the members of the Dallas Police Department's Homicide Unit, and the larger Department for working so tirelessly and diligently for Sara and our family.

This is an unspeakable tragedy. Sara was a young women of immense talent and immeasurable potential. She was beloved by all who knew her and deeply touched everyone she met. The world is a more precious place because of her and sadder now without her. While her amazing potential may be lost, we have much to learn from how Sara lived each day based on hope, love, and kindness. We miss her and will love her always.

We have the utmost trust and confidence in the Dallas County District Attorney's Office. There is no doubt that they, along with the Dallas Police Department and Detective Serra, will continue to seek and find justice for Sara. At this time, we will focus on healing, the grief we have, and living with this senseless tragedy.

Richter's bond was set at $1 million.

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