A suspect has been taken into custody and faces multiple charges following an altercation that turned violent at a home in Houston early Saturday morning. According to a news release, Francisco Miguel Santarose, 30, is charged with aggravated assault-serious bodily injury, as well as assault on a family member, which occurred at 1114 Saulnier Circle.
Houston Police Department’s Homicide Division responded to a call around 6:20 a.m on the said date, about a potential kidnapping at the address. During the encounter, a witness reported to Sergeant A. Dudley and Detective K. Heaverlo, that after a serious fight, the victim was assaulted by Santarose. The concerned witness, fearing their own safety hid within the house and lost sight of both the victim and the assaulter, for about an hour. This incident has left a 25-year-old woman in critical condition, currently hospitalized with life-threatening injuries.
Eventually, crucial evidence discovered at the scene and subsequent investigative work allowed authorities to locate both the suspect and the victim. Santarose was apprehended, while the victim received immediate medical attention from Houston Fire Department paramedics. Houston authorities were able to charge Santarose after conferring with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. The Harris County Jail now houses Santarose, pending further legal proceedings.
As the investigation continues, the exact circumstances around the assault remain under scrutiny, however, the charges laid out signify the severity of the act. The case is being prosecuted in the 263rd State District Court, where Santarose's bail will be determined, and further judicial actions will unfold.
