On July 27, around 11:00 p.m., multiple witnesses called 911 after seeing a horrific assault unfold in the area of 136th St. S and Pacific Ave. S. They reported a man violently attacking a woman, tearing her clothing, and forcing her into a vehicle before fleeing the area. Deputies responded immediately to the reported kidnapping, but when they arrived, the suspect’s vehicle had already left the scene, and deputies quickly began gathering information to locate the victim.
A short time later, deputies located the suspect vehicle in a neighborhood nearby. The suspect had fled, but the victim was found nearby and safely rescued. Fire personnel responded to provide medical care to the victim before transporting her to a local hospital for treatment. Deputies and K9 conducted an extensive search for the suspect that night, but he was not located. Because of the violent nature of the crime, our Domestic Violence Unit immediately took over the investigation. Detectives worked tirelessly to identify the suspect and track down his whereabouts.
On July 29, at approximately 10:00 p.m., deputies received information that the suspect was a passenger in a vehicle traveling northbound on Interstate 5. Deputies quickly coordinated resources and conducted a traffic stop.
The female driver and the male front-seat passenger were determined to have no involvement in the kidnapping and were detained briefly before being released.
The suspect, who was seated in the back seat, complied with deputies’ commands and was taken into custody without incident. The 40-year-old suspect was booked into the Pierce County Jail on charges of Kidnapping and Assault.
Domestic violence can escalate quickly and become life-threatening. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please reach out for help before it’s too late. If you witness violence or believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 immediately. Your call could save a life.
Domestic Violence Resources:
Crystal Judson Family Justice Center – (253) 798-4166
Crystal Judson Family Justice Center in Tacoma, WA