Search continues for kidnapped teen
WOODBURN, Ore. - A family in Woodburn is patiently waiting for news about a kidnapped teenager.
According to police, 13-year-old Elvia Morales was taken from her home on Wednesday by a man who family members said they considered a family friend. The suspect is 36-year-old Juan Martinez-Martinez (pictured at right). Police believe he may have left the area and was possibly headed for California.
According to the girl's father, the teenager was home with her older cousin when Martinez-Martinez showed up. He said the cousin tried to intervene, there was a struggle and Martinez-Martinez left with the girl.
The girl's father said he wasn't aware of any communication between his daughter and Martinez-Martinez and that he rushed home as soon as he learned what had happened. He said he managed to reach his daughter by phone but she told him she didn't want anyone to look for her, she wanted to be alone and there was nothing wrong with her.
But her father is still worried and hasn't been able to reach her by phone again. He said he still considers Martinez-Martinez a friend but doesn't understand why the man would take his daughter.
The FBI is assisting in the investigation. Anyone with information about the girl's whereabouts is urged to contact police.
Suspect's Description
- Short black hair
- 5 feet, 6 inches tall
- Weighs about 145 pounds
Teen's Description
- About 4 feet, 5 inches to 4 feet, 6 inches tall
- Long black hair down to the middle of her back
- Was wearing blue jeans, aqua shirt and white shoes
- Diamond-sized birthmark on inside left bicep
Vehicle Description
- Black or dark blue sedan
- Possibly an older model Saturn
