Arrest made in two southwest Fresno murders

Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer said Andre Ruff has admitted to two murders within a two week period. Dyer explained, "He has extensive contact with law enforcement in terms of being known as a very violent person."

Dyer said Ruff stabbed 52-year-old Maurice Hackett to death outside the "Westside market" in southwest Fresno November 16th.

Hackett's sister Doreen was relieved the man believed responsible is in custody. She said, "I'm grateful they made an arrest but it's so sad that it took two people to get killed in order to make an arrest."

Doreen said she stood up before her church congregation on Sunday to tell them an arrest had been made in her brother's murder. She didn't know the suspect's aunt attended the same church. Andre Ruff's aunt also stood up. Hackett said, "She said the system failed him. She said his parents begged for help because he was mentally ill."

Police detective Paul Cervantes talked of Andre Ruff's mindset. "According to him he heard voices in his head. Mr. Ruff does have some history with regard to mental health issues."

Police said Ruff also killed his 70-year-old aunt Fairy Miles on December 3rd. Officers found Miles in her living room. She had been stabbed to death.

Ruff is charged with two counts of murder. He's being held on two-million dollars bail.