A night that began at a downtown Ventura bar ended in a terrifying ordeal along a remote stretch of Wheeler Canyon Road in Santa Paula, where police say a woman was kidnapped, threatened with death and seriously injured before a nearby neighbor stepped in and helped her escape.
The woman, who suffered significant injuries, managed to get away and make it to a police station for help. She was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, while the suspect was later taken into custody.
According to CBS Los Angeles, Ventura Police arrested 33-year-old Ignacio Anzaldo and booked him on attempted murder, kidnapping and domestic violence. Investigators told the outlet that Anzaldo left a downtown bar with the woman, became irate while they were driving and, after stopping on Wheeler Canyon Road, allegedly began cutting her with a knife. Officers later located and arrested Anzaldo without incident, the report states.
How the victim escaped
Neighbors in the quiet canyon area heard the disturbance and intervened, which created the opening the woman needed to break free and get away, CBS Los Angeles reports. She then walked to a police station to report what had happened. Paramedics later transported her to a nearby hospital for medical care.
The outlet added that anyone with information about the case can contact Sgt. Fabian Gutierrez of the Major Crimes Unit at (805) 339-4428.
Police response and investigation
Per the Ventura Police Department, the Major Crimes Unit handles felony violent crimes and is leading the investigation into the incident. Detectives say the case remains active and that they are coordinating with partner agencies as needed.
Officials are encouraging anyone with tips or additional information to contact investigators so they can fully document the circumstances surrounding the reported attack.
What happens next
Police say Anzaldo was booked and held while detectives complete follow-up work. Prosecutors with the Ventura County District Attorney's Office will review the case to determine whether to file formal charges.
The District Attorney's Office typically evaluates investigative reports before deciding on felony complaints and moving a case to arraignment. As with any arrest, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
