Valley woman kidnapped from Mesa library, stabbed by suspect

MESA, AZ - Police are looking for a man who kidnapped a woman from a Mesa library and stabbed her before leaving her in a remote area southeast of the Valley.

Police spokesman Sgt. Tony Landato said the kidnapping occurred around 10:20 a.m. Friday at the Main Public Library in Mesa.

Landato said the victim was returning books when the suspect approached her and asked for a ride.

The 45-year-old woman agreed and when they were driving, the suspect pulled out a knife and threatened her.

He then stabbed the victim multiple times and restrained her in the back seat while stealing the vehicle.

The suspect drove the victim to a remote area south of Florence and then disabled the vehicle.

He told the woman he was going to Tucson and left her in the desert.

The witness told police the man walked to the highway and hitched a ride with a passing motorist.

The victim was able to get free and is recovering from non life-threatening injuries.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, 18 to 22 years old, 5-feet-6-inches inches tall, and 160 pounds.

He was wearing a gray T-shirt, blue basketball style shorts with white stripes horizontal along the bottom cuff, a black baseball cap with a white logo, and dark tennis shoes with white soles.

Police said he was possibly carrying an orange or red T-shirt, rag or towel in his pocket.

If you have any information, you are asked to contact Detective Rayburn at 480-862-5502 or Sgt. Rash at 480-644-6075.

Also, anonymous tips can be sent to Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or the Silent Witness website .