A Texas man is facing murder charges after allegedly strangling a woman whose body was reportedly discovered in a recycling bin hidden in his room.

The San Antonio Express-News reported that prosecutors said Alex Akpan, 24, only knew Irene Yemitan, 23, a few days before killing her. A witness reportedly told investigators that she was with Yemitan when they met Akpan at a local mall. Since then, the pair exchanged texts and phone calls, they said.

The witness claimed Yemitan had been to Akpan’s house on several instances, including a day before Akpan’s mother discovered her body. The prosecutor said the witness stated Akpan was angry that day because Yemitan parked on the street. She described how Akpan hollered and threw a chair.

According to court documents obtained by KTRK, Akpan’s mother went into his room on September 5 and noticed the recycling bin was there instead of in the backyard. The mother reportedly took a closer look inside the bin and spotted a foot.

The mother is said to have tipped the bin over and discovered Yemitan’s body, prompting her to call her ex-husband over to the home. The document stated that the pair did CPR and called 911 but Yemitan was already dead.

Akpan’s mother called her son as officers responded to the scene. Akpan allegedly said he knew what happened and that he’s on his way home. Upon his arrival, however, he refused to speak with police and requested a lawyer, according to the Express-News.

Akpan was initially released on $10,000 bond on the tampering with evidence charge. However, he was arrested again Wednesday after prosecutors filed murder charges against him. He’s now being held on $250,000 bond.

The 24-year-old is due back in court on Friday.

[Featured Image: Alex Akpan/handout; Irene Yemitan/KTRK video screengrab]