KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The trial for a Kalamazoo woman accused of murder and arson is wrapping up.
Melissa Morgan is charged with first-degree murder and first-degree arson for the death of Zachary Hayes. Hayes was found in a burned out home in the 400-block of Wallace Avenue in February 2019.
The trial began near the end of January and closing statements were held Wednesday, February 5.
Morgan claims that she was raped by Hayes multiple times, but she did not contact police about it or submit to a rape kit test. Prosecutors say that her testimony does not add up.
Citizens called to testify over the course of the trial included an ex-girlfriend of Hayes, who said that he had threatened to burn her clothes in a previous incident. Morgan’s attorney had argued that another witness, Justin Flegel, was actually responsible for setting the fire.
However, the lead detective in the investigation was called to testify again, linking text messages from Morgan to the murder of Hayes.
The jury is now expected to deliberate on the verdict for Morgan.
Originally a person of interest in the case, Morgan was formally charged last June.
