A Glendale community is reeling after a near disaster was averted when a fifth-grade girl bravely escaped an alleged kidnapping attempt on her way to school. Authorities have now apprehended 37-year-old Joseph Ruiz in connection with the Friday morning incident, according to Arizona's Family. Ruiz, with a serious criminal background that includes a conviction for aggravated assault, is facing kidnapping and custodial interference felony charges after the alarming encounter near 43rd and Peoria avenues in Glendale.
The unsettling events unfolded just before 8 a.m. as the young girl was heading to Sunset Elementary School. Ruiz allegedly attempted to grab her after his car pulled up next to her. The schoolgirl managed to quickly run and find safety with a group of her peers. In court, the state's attorney highlighted Ruiz's criminal history, stating, "I would note that he has a history of violence. He was convicted of an aggravated assault, a class 3 dangerous felony, after having stabbed his mother in the neck," reported Arizona's Family.
Surveillance footage played a crucial role in swiftly tracking down Ruiz. Nayeli Martinez, a local mother, shared her shock with Arizona's Family, "Oh my god. It gave me goosebumps," she said. Her house’s surveillance system captured the attempted grab, while her son, an 11-year-old student at the same school as the victim, spoke of the incident saying, "Thank God I'm safe."
Following the incident, Sunset Elementary School officials sent out a letter with safety guidelines and urged parents to review them with their children. The recommendations include cautioning students not to talk to strangers or to travel alone and advising parents to establish firm pickup procedures. In a statement obtained by ABC15, school leaders stressed the importance of these guidelines: "No matter the age of your child, please take a moment to review these safety tips." The school urged anyone with information on stranger encounters to report to Phoenix Police through Crime Stop and also inform the school office.
Community members and parents have since been to heighten their vigilance regarding their children's safety. Amcy Borquez praised the victim's friends for their actions, telling Arizona's Family, "I think they were very brave for their age." Now more than ever, the Glendale neighborhood is grappling with the harrowing reminder that safety is a collective responsibility, facilitated by watchful eyes and prompt action.
