LIVINGSTON, N.J. — A 35-year-old man is facing murder charges after the death of his girlfriend during what authorities describe as a turbulent moment in their relationship. Andres Calvachi-Paz is accused of killing Dayana Chisaguano Maleza, 28, as she expressed her wish to end their relationship.
Calvachi-Paz was taken into custody on Tuesday and now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and additional offenses related to the handling of Maleza’s remains. Investigators revealed that he is also charged with disturbing human remains and theft, further complicating the case.
A local golf course employee made the grim discovery of Maleza’s body early Tuesday morning. While attempting to chase away deer from Cedar Hill Golf Course, the worker noticed a disturbing smell that led him into a thicket, where he found the remains. This prompted law enforcement to launch a detailed investigation.
According to police, the tragic confrontation between Calvachi-Paz and Maleza occurred earlier this month in the Newark apartment they shared. The argument reportedly escalated after she made it clear that she wanted to leave the relationship. Investigators allege that Calvachi-Paz responded violently, leading to her death by strangulation.
After the alleged murder, authorities claim Calvachi-Paz transported Maleza’s body for several hours before leaving it in a wooded area near the golf course, which is situated approximately 25 miles from New York City. This relocation of the body has raised numerous questions about his actions in the hours following the incident.
In an effort to mislead investigators and those who knew Maleza, police say Calvachi-Paz used her phone to send messages and photos to friends and family, creating the false impression that she was alive. This maneuver appeared to be a calculated attempt to delay the discovery of her death and thwart the search for her.
Despite these efforts to cover up the crime, authorities quickly gathered evidence linking Calvachi-Paz to the murder. Following his arrest, he reportedly confessed to killing Maleza during police interrogations.
While officials continue to piece together the timeline of the events leading to Maleza’s death, questions remain about when exactly she died and how long her body may have gone undiscovered. Early indications suggest it could have been several days before her remains were found.
Calvachi-Paz is currently being held without bail at Essex County Jail as the investigation unfolds. Court records show that a date for his initial court appearance has not yet been scheduled.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is actively pursuing additional leads and has encouraged anyone with pertinent information to step forward as they continue their inquiry into this tragic case.