Authorities Launch Manhunt for Heavy-Set Hispanic Suspect in String of Assaults
In a concerning turn of events, the University of Arizona campus is on high alert following three recent attacks on female students, raising fears of a potential serial predator in the area. Tucson police are intensifying efforts to locate the suspect responsible for the disturbing incidents.
The suspect, described as a heavy-set Hispanic man with a dark complexion and buzz-cut hair, stands between 5-feet, 10-inches to 6-feet tall. He was last seen wearing an orange shirt and jeans. The attacks, all involving groping, following, and attempted abductions, occurred within a mile of each other over the past week.
The most recent incident took place late Monday night when the assailant grabbed a woman around her waist, fondling her over her clothes. Tucson Assistant Police Chief Christopher Dennison detailed the horrifying encounter during a Wednesday press conference, stating, “The victim, while being physically restrained, dropped to the ground and started screaming. The suspect released the victim and ran to his vehicle before driving away.”
Prior to this incident, two other female students reported similar modus operandi. They recounted being followed by a man driving a purple or dark-blue car, possibly an early 2000s Toyota Camry or Corolla, displaying a dented front bumper, tinted windows, and a faded or flaking Arizona license plate.
In incidents on December 6 and 7, two separate female students reported being grabbed from behind by a man who quickly fled when they screamed. Fortunately, none of the victims sustained physical harm in any of the three incidents.
Assistant Police Chief Dennison highlighted the striking similarities in the suspect’s description and the circumstances of the attempted abduction on December 11, prompting university officials to enhance security measures on campus. University of Arizona Police Department Police Chief Chris Olson emphasized the bolstering of patrol capabilities for increased visibility and engagement.
The Tucson community is urged to remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious activity to the police or calling 911. The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, University of Arizona Police Department, and Oro Valley Police Department are collaborating in the investigation.