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Missing Mich. woman found dead; boyfriend in custody

FLINT, Mich. -- The boyfriend of a missing woman who was found dead near a Michigan river earlier this week has been taken into custody in connection with her death, reports CBS affiliate WNEM.

Authorities say the body of 44-year-old Amy Weinski, of Homer Township, was found along the Flint River on Monday night, hours after she was reported missing.

The body was found about 85 miles from where Weinski lived and her death was ruled a homicide. A medical examiner determined she died from blunt force trauma and strangulation, WNEM reports.

Officers say their investigation into the missing woman led them to the river. The search started after a vehicle that Weinski had rented was found burned Sunday in Genesee County's Mount Morris Township. The fire spread to and destroyed a nearby vacant house.

Weinski's boyfriend, 45-year-old John Barritt, was taken into custody in Calhoun County on Monday and was then turned over to Mt. Morris Township Police, according to the station.

Another person of interest -- a woman -- was reportedly taken into custody as well. Authorities say the woman provided information that led police to Weinski's body.

Mount Morris Township Police Chief Terence Green told the station that while the motive isn't clear, there are a few possibilities, including a possible ending of the relationship or that Barritt may have been trying to get money from Weinski.

WREM reports that Barritt has a criminal history and has previously served time behind bars for robbing a bank, among other offenses.

CBS affiliate WWMT reports Barritt is expected to be charged in Weinski's death on Thursday.

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