SPRINGFIELD (AP) — A transient who had served time for a sexual offense has been charged with killing a Springfield woman, police said.

Detectives arrested Carl Lee Meadows, 39, as he entered a store across from a high school Thursday.

He is charged with the beating death of Tricia Jo Meadows, 54. She was dead at least three days when her physical therapist found her Tuesday in her apartment, police said.

Police wouldn’t say what they believe the motive was.

Sgt. Rich Charboneau said Meadows told family members shortly before her death that Carl Lee Meadows was her cousin.

“He has refused to describe his relationship with the victim,” Charboneau said.

The suspect was on post-prison supervision after serving a prison term for first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, police and state officials said.