APACHE JUNCTION, AZ — A 13-year-old girl missing from Apache Junction since Friday afternoon has been located and is safe, police say.
The girl was last seen just after 1 p.m. Friday at the Circle K near Superstition Blvd. and Meridian Drive. A Turquoise Alert was issued Tuesday evening and canceled Wednesday morning.
WATCH: Apache Junction police provide update after Turquoise Alert is canceled
The teen reportedly had an argument with several family members and walked southbound through the parking lot.
Investigators believe that at that point, she approached and entered what appeared to be an early-2000s white Chevrolet Impala four-door sedan with damage to the front driver-side bumper.
That car was last observed going west on Superstition Boulevard.
Security camera footage identified the driver as a man believed to be in his 50s or 60s with black and gray hair and a beard, dark eyes, and wearing a gray tank top, black shorts, and black sneakers.
Apache Junction Police Department confirmed Wednesday morning that the man seen in the photographs released by officials was located in Globe, Arizona, and has been taken into custody. His vehicle was also recovered.
Shortly after, police announced the girl was also located and is safe.
Police later announced that two men were arrested in connection with the case.
Patrick Steve Sanchez Jr., 68, is facing the following charges:
- Sexual conduct with a minor
- Luring a minor for sexual exploitation
- Molestation of a child
- Custodial interference
- Unlawful imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Tampering with physical evidence
Manuel Sanchez, 60, is facing the following charges:
- Unlawful imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Tampering with physical evidence
Officials say tips generated from the Turquoise Alert are what allowed law enforcement to identify the man and find the missing girl.
No other details about the men's charges have been released.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
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