Poway child sex assault suspect arrested after four-day manhunt
Key Points:
- Jose Santana, 36, was arrested Wednesday evening after a four-day manhunt for sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl at the SOFI Apartments in Poway, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.
- The assault occurred inside a laundry building, and the suspect fled on an electric scooter after the victim's friend screamed for him to stop.
- Despite an initial helicopter search, deputies were unable to locate Santana until Wednesday, with investigators releasing surveillance footage and a sketch to the public during the search.
- Residents expressed concern about the safety of children in the area, noting that the location is commonly frequented by kids after school, and urged vigilance among parents.
- Authorities continue to investigate and ask anyone with information to contact the Sheriff's Child Abuse Unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously.