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LI Man Facing Murder Charge In Connection With Human Remains

UNIONDALE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – A Long Island man has been charged with murder after human remains were discovered in Uniondale.

Carlos Benitez-Hernandez, 21, of Uniondale, is expected to be arraigned Thursday.

"He has a violent criminal history with weapons, gang assault, intimidating victim. He has done three years in incarceration. In fact, he had been let out just prior to this incident and was on parole at the time of this murder," said Det. Sgt. Stephen Fitzpatrick. 

Nassau County police searched the area east of Kellenberg Memorial High School on Wednesday after receiving a tip about possible remains.

Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said they belonged to a male in his "late teenage years." He said the victim was likely murdered over a year ago.

Ryder also said the killing appears to be connected to MS-13, a violent gang linked to several crimes in the area. 

The body has not yet been identified.

Authorities said five suspects connected to the investigation are already in custody for previous gang-related crimes on Long Island.

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