A manhunt is underway for a former Yakima police officer suspected of two murders and the abduction of a toddler. The suspect, Elias Huizar, 39, was allegedly spotted on Hayden Island in North Portland, Oregon, triggering a frantic search. A Plaid Pantry clerk claimed to have seen Huizar just after midnight on Tuesday; he is believed to be driving a black sedan, as reported by KGW.
The grisly saga began with the discovery of Huizar's ex-wife's body at Wiley Elementary School in West Richland, Washington. None other than students were harmed during the killing which police believe was not a random act. A second victim, identified as Huizar's girlfriend by the Washington State Patrol, was found dead in his home. The suspect, who is about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs roughly 170 pounds, was reportedly sporting a black hat, a black long-sleeve shirt, light blue jeans, and black shoes when last seen. Police have also disclosed Huizar's possible intent to flee to Mexico with his child, as cited by FOX13 Seattle.
An AMBER Alert for Huizar's one-year-old son, Roman, describes the child as around 2 feet tall and weighing about 25 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Huizar and the child could be traveling not only in the black sedan but also in a 2009 silver Toyota Corolla bearing Washington license plate CBZ4745, according to the alert. The situation became more critical after authorities expanded the AMBER Alert into Oregon as Huizar's whereabouts continued to elude law enforcement.
Authorities continue their relentless investigation, piecing together the tragic events leading to the AMBER Alert issuance and dual homicides. The community has been rattled by Huizar's former status as a law enforcement officer, now thrust into the role of a fugitive suspect. The urgency of the search escalates, as the safety of young Roman hangs in the balance, and police suspect Huizar, could be armed and dangerous. For more details on the ongoing manhunt and Huizar's description, refer to the original alert issued by KOMO News.
