Lawrence man charged with murder of neighbor Carol-Flaz-Burgos

Cristian Montero, a 35-year-old resident of the Arlington Point apartment complex in Lawrence, has been charged with the murder of his neighbor, 37-year-old Carol Flaz-Burgos. Flaz-Burgos was reported missing on August 31, after last being seen near her home. Four days later, her body was discovered in Haverhill, prompting an investigation into her disappearance and death. Surveillance footage revealed that Flaz-Burgos entered Montero's apartment on the day she went missing, where she was seen texting and making the sign of the cross before entering. Investigators noted that Montero was seen leaving his apartment with a cart that appeared to contain clothing shortly after Flaz-Burgos entered. Additionally, her phone's location data indicated movement towards Haverhill, where her body was ultimately found. The circumstances surrounding her death raised significant concerns, leading to Montero's arrest. Initially, Montero faced charges of witness intimidation and misleading investigators, but the results of a medical examiner's autopsy led to the more serious murder charge. This development highlights the gravity of the situation and the potential implications for Montero, who lived just two doors away from the victim. Montero is scheduled to be arraigned in Lawrence District Court on Wednesday at 2 p.m., where he will face the murder charge. The case has drawn attention due to the tragic nature of Flaz-Burgos's death and the close proximity of the suspect, raising questions about safety in the community.