Episode 99: Burned Alive - The Murder of Mercedes Vega

On April 16, 2023, 22-year-old Mercedes Vega walked into her apartment complex’s parking garage in Tempe, Arizona—looking down at her phone, unaware she was about to be ambushed. Hours later, her body was found in the backseat of a burning car in the Arizona desert. In today’s episode, we tell the full story—from who Mercedes was, to the chilling details of her murder, to the recent arrest that finally cracked open the case. With forensic breakthroughs, surveillance footage, and a timeline full of unanswered questions, this case is one of the most brutal and baffling we’ve ever covered. 👉 No chitchat at the top—we dive straight into the case. And if you’re joining us from The Devil Within—welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. CW: This episode contains graphic descriptions of violence and may not be suitable for all listeners. xoxo,  Margot 💀✨😘 Come for the true crime, stick around for the life updates, and—of course—enjoy the chaos🌵🩷 Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media @DeathXSouthwest for all the behind-the-scenes fun. My AMAZING therapist’s IG (bc we can all benefit from a little therapy!): @wholeselflindsay (Lindsay Christianson) Want more DXSW? Leave us a voicemail: 520-302-5253 Email us: [email protected]  Official DXSW Website  Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Shop My Amazon Faves  Try Our Patreon - bonus content and more! All Links Click Here! If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Crisis Text Line: Within the US, text HOME to 741741 Follow DXSW | @deathxsouthwest: Instagram TikTok Twitter Facebook DXSW is: Hosted, Executive Produced, & Audio Edited by Margot Carmichael Music from Soundstripe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices