LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - Closing arguments wrapped up this morning in the murder trial of a man accused of killing a woman and driving her car with her body in it for 30 days.

Christopher T. Cater of Lake Charles admitted to killing his acquaintance, Sheila Ortega , 72, and taking out loans in her name, investigators said. Her body was found in her car outside the Prien Lake Mall on Aug. 21, 2023.

Cater is charged with first-degree murder, identity theft and unlawful disposal of remains.

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Day two: Accused killer searched ‘how to get rid of a body,’ impersonated victim to ask for money, detectives say

Day one: Man who drove around with woman’s body for 30 days did not intend to kill her, defense says

Four witnesses testified Tuesday, including Ortega’s daughter,

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