A 10-year-old girl reported abducted from an apartment complex in Canby was found safe on Wednesday after a 13-hour search, according to ABC News, which reported that authorities located her tied up in a closet at a residence in Oregon City. The suspect, Vince Edgar Chavez, 35, was arrested without incident after attempting to flee the scene, the U.S. Marshals Service said. The girl’s 12-year-old sister was “severely injured” in the attack and remains hospitalized, Clackamas County chief deputy district attorney Chris Owen confirmed.
Police described the abduction as occurring overnight in Canby, where an unknown male allegedly entered an apartment, assaulted the 12-year-old girl, and abducted the 10-year-old. Authorities identified a suspect vehicle and tracked his phone to the Oregon City residence, where he had rented a room. A SWAT team surrounded the home, and Chavez was taken into custody. Owen noted there was “a bit of a connection” between the suspect and victim but did not elaborate on motives.
Suspect Arrested After 13-Hour Search
Canby Police Chief Jose Gonzalez announced the girl’s safe return at a news conference, calling the search “very dynamic” and “evolving.” The operation involved local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI. Gonzalez, who expressed emotion during the briefing, thanked those involved, stating, “Without their help, it would have been impossible for us to find her well and alive today.” The girl was transported to a medical facility for treatment of her injuries.
Sister Severe Injuries, Hospitalized
Chavez faces charges including first-degree kidnapping, multiple sex crimes, assault, burglary, attempted first-degree murder, and unlawful use of a weapon. Authorities allege he assaulted the 12-year-old girl with a hammer. The Canby School District increased police presence at Carus Elementary School, where the 10-year-old is a student, “out of an abundance of caution.” Two other individuals detained at the residence are not expected to be charged.
Police Detail Evolving Investigation
Investigators found no signs of forced entry at the Canby apartment, and the suspect’s vehicle was deemed “paramount in this investigation.” The U.S. Marshals Service reported the victim was “located in the residence tied up in a closet.” Chavez, who was arrested without further incident, is alleged to have lived alone at the Oregon City residence.
