A Lawrence man wanted for a harrowing series of crimes, including aggravated rape, kidnapping, and assault, was apprehended this morning by the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section (MSP VFAS). The suspect, Rene Montes, 55, was nabbed in Methuen after the State Police launched a manhunt following a report by the victim of her ordeal.
Armed with a meat cleaver, Montes allegedly assaulted and raped an adult female in her Danvers residence on Wednesday. The victim, brandishing courage, managed to escape and report the incident to the State Police-Danvers Barracks at approximately 7:45 AM that same day. Following her report, she was taken for treatment of her injuries, with evidence, including the meat cleaver, being recovered by troopers from the crime scene.
The investigation rapidly led to the identification of Montes as the prime suspect. State troopers obtained a warrant for his arrest on charges of Aggravated Rape, Aggravated Kidnapping, and Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon. Montes had troopers diligently searching for him until his capture this morning, as detailed in an announcement by the state's police media relations page.
The MSP VFAS did not confirm yet whether Montes will be arraigned today. His bail and arraignment status are to be updated when more information becomes available. Montes was transported to a State Police facility for booking, continuing the saga of his alleged criminal actions that have been brought to a halt by the law enforcement's quick response.
