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27-Year-Old University of Toledo Graduate, Once Homeless, Found Murdered; 33-Year-Old Arrested

07:40 AM, 11/28/2025
27-Year-Old University of Toledo Graduate, Once Homeless, Found Murdered; 33-Year-Old Arrested

Malicai Calder, 27, a recent University of Toledo graduate who had overcome homelessness, was found murdered; authorities say he suffered gunshot and stab wounds and was dismembered. Police arrested 33-year-old Martel Huggins on Nov. 25 and charged him with murder and felonious assault; he is held on a $1 million bond. The Lucas County coroner has ruled the manner of death a homicide while cause and timing remain under investigation. Friends and shelter staff remembered Calder as hardworking and generous, and the community is seeking answers as the probe continues.

Malicai Calder, a 27-year-old University of Toledo graduate who had been praised as a "success story" after overcoming homelessness, was found dead in an incident that authorities are treating as a homicide.

Police arrested 33-year-old Martel Huggins on Nov. 25 and charged him with murder and felonious assault. Calder had been reported missing on Nov. 22; investigators said some of his remains were discovered in a vehicle during an arrest stop. Huggins is being held on a $1 million bond, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 1.

The Lucas County Coroner’s Office reported that Calder sustained gunshot and stab wounds to the head and was dismembered. "At present, the cause/time/date of death are still under investigation," the coroner said. "Sufficient findings have been gathered to rule the manner of death as a homicide." Investigators continue to work with the coroner's office to establish a timeline and motive.

Community Remembers Calder

Those who knew Calder remembered him for his determination and generosity. Pastor Heather Boone, who met him at age 19 when he was living in a homeless shelter, described him as "sweet" and "hardworking," and said he was always eager to help others. Boone noted that Calder had recently earned a master’s degree from the University of Toledo and had become an example of hope for other young people at the shelter.

"He didn’t deserve this, and he was just an amazing young man — this is heartbreaking and devastating," Boone said.

Calder’s cousin, Carolina Thomas, called him "so bright" and said he would "give his last to help someone in need." Family and community members are mourning and have expressed a desire for answers as the investigation continues.

Investigation Status

Authorities have not released a confirmed motive. The investigation is ongoing and officials have asked anyone with information to contact law enforcement. No further comments were immediately available from the investigating agency.

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