A Salem man is in custody following a report of a kidnapping in southeast Salem, as confirmed by the Salem Police Department. On Dec. 28, the investigation into the reported absence of a 36-year-old woman commenced after her 18-year-old son notified authorities of her failure to return the previous evening. Found at a nearby park were her vehicle, along with torn clothing and shoes identified as hers, according to a report by KPTV.
Following the initial discovery by her son, the woman later reached out to the police herself, claiming that she was taken and held at gunpoint by 39-year-old Luis Pantoja-Guzman. The Salem Police Department, upon further investigation, found evidence that supported the woman's testimony and subsequently located Pantoja-Guzman driving on Kuebler Boulevard, as stated in a statement obtained by KATU.
Pantoja-Guzman was arrested with a felony warrant out for his arrest and was taken to the police department. During the process, he displayed combative behavior towards detectives and had to be restrained before his subsequent transfer to the Marion County Jail. KPTV reports detail the charges against him, which include first-degree kidnapping, fourth-degree assault, menacing, unlawful use of a weapon, and several other related charges.
As the investigation unfolded, detectives served search warrants at multiple locations and recovered a .380 caliber handgun along with ammunition, magazines, and additional evidence which police say is connected to the case. On the occurrence of the search, the information as provided by the Salem Police Department included weapons charges, as well as charges for coercion, criminal mischief, and endangering another person, reported by KOIN. During the alleged crimes, Pantoja-Guzman was also on probation for first-degree burglary, and is facing charges in a separate case for stalking and criminal mischief. His arraignment is scheduled for the following Monday afternoon.
The Salem Police Department has stated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing and no additional details have been made public at this time. The community has been following the case with concern and await further updates as the legal process continues for Luis Pantoja-Guzman.
