Authorities: Suspect’s DNA found on girl who was killed

Court documents say a 21-year-old man’s DNA was found on the body of a 6-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted and killed in New Mexico in August.

In a criminal complaint Tuesday, authorities say a DNA swab voluntarily submitted by Leland Hust, of Rio Rancho, was matched to evidence found on the young victim’s body.

Hust was arrested Friday in Ariana Romeo’s death. Her body was found in August in a house in Rio Rancho.

Police say Hust also lived at the home in the Albuquerque suburb.

He is being charged with child abuse resulting in death, or in the alternative, aggravated criminal sexual penetration of a child.

Authorities say a state medical investigator determined the girl had injuries consistent with sexual assault and strangulation.

His attorney did not immediately return a message seeking comment.