A Jackson County Grand Jury Thursday found an Eldorado man guilty of first-degree murder in the death of 19-year-old SIU Carbondale student Pravin Varughese in February 2014.

In his closing arguments yesterday, Appellate Prosecutor David Robinson said 23-year-old Gaege Bethune battered and robbed Varughese, setting into motion events that led to first-degree murder.

Defense attorney Michael Wepsiec noted Bethune was not on trial for lying, but for first-degree murder. He said only superficial bruises were found on Varughese’s body and $24 in his wallet.

Prosecutors contend an intoxicated Bethune and Varughese drove around Carbondale looking for cocaine. After an unsuccessful search, prosecutors say the pair fought. After the fight, wearing only a T-shirt and blue jeans, Varughese ran into the woods. His body was found several days later.

Bethune could spend 20 to 60 years in prison for first-degree murder. His sentencing date has not been set at this time.