A man has been charged in the homicide of 77-year-old Robert Sharp, a retired University of Michigan chemistry professor.
The suspect, Isom Martez-Nygel Hamilton,was arraigned in Washtenaw County court Friday on charges of open murder, armed robbery, first-degree arson, first-degree home invasion and mutiliation of a dead body. 29-year-old Hamilton was arrested in connection with Sharp’s death on June 11.
Sharp taught chemistry at the University for 39 years before retiring in 2008. Police discovered Sharp’s body after a welfare check was requested for him by a neighbor after he failed to show up to a community meeting.
Hamilton had been on parole since November 2017 for assault of a police officer, possession of a dangerous weapon and first-degree arson, after serving four years in prison for the charges.
Hamilton worked at a Wendy’s restaurant that Sharp frequented. According to MLive, Hamilton had burglarized Sharp’s home several times, including stealing Sharp’s wallet and computer.
After allegedly murdering Sharp, Hamilton attempted to burn Sharp’s body to cover his tracks. The officers who performed the welfare check observed heavy smoke residue in the home and found Sharp in the basement of his home on Alpine Drive. The U.S. Marshals helped police track down their suspect.
Hamilton is currently being held without bond and will have a preliminary examination on July 19.
This is a developing story. Please check back at michigandaily.com for more details.