Police in Kentucky on Monday said a 21-year-old student was arrested and charged with murdering his wrestling teammate at Campbellsville University.
Campbellsville Police said authorities took Charles Escalera into custody Saturday after finding him hiding out in a barn near the Green County and Taylor County line. He’s being held at the Taylor County Detention Center.
Police said they originally responded to a report of an unresponsive student inside a dorm room around 12:45 p.m. Saturday.
Officers arrived to find Josiah Malachi Kilman, 18, lying motionless at the scene. He was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
A state autopsy on Monday determined that Mr. Kilman, who was from Columbia Falls, Montana, died from strangulation. Police have yet to declare a motive in the case.
Mr. Kilman’s family said in a statement to Lexington NBC affiliate WLEX-TV that the victim “had a passionate heart on fire for the Lord.”
“He was well-known to many as an avid athlete and faithful religious leader. Josiah influenced many hearts as he was a true example of compassion, kindness and love. His example compelled so many others to make the same changes he wished to see in the world, and his impact on their lives will never truly be forgotten,” the statement said.
Mr. Escalera is being held on a $2 million bond. His next court date is scheduled for March 6.
• This article is based in part on wire service reports.