Apache Junction police seek public help to identify prior victims of serial rapist suspect

Apache Junction police are investigating a 32-year-old man accused of kidnapping, beating, and sexually assaulting an 18-year-old neighbor while wearing a mask. The incident, which detectives are treating as part of a potential series of crimes, has led authorities to appeal to the public for assistance in identifying other possible victims.

According to police reports, the suspect, Pedro Torres, and the victim were strangers before the attack. The crime took place near 16th Avenue and San Marcos Drive around 1 a.m. on September 24. Torres allegedly threatened the young woman at gunpoint near her bedroom window. He then placed a hood over her head and forced her to walk approximately one block to his residence.

Once inside his home, investigators say Torres restrained the victim and warned her that he would kill her if she did not cooperate. For nearly 12 hours, he is accused of pistol-whipping, choking, and sexually abusing her. The victim required reconstructive surgery and is currently recovering at home.

Court documents reveal that Torres cleaned the bloody scene while the victim showered, washed her clothes, and hid the mask he had worn during the initial attack. Officers stated that Torres drove the woman back to her home in his Jeep around noon the following day, September 25.

The arrest of Torres was witnessed by a neighbor, Blaze Tourney, who described the dramatic scene. Tourney recalled waking up to a SWAT team in the neighborhood. He noted that officers lowered the arm of a SWAT truck, broke down the door, and flew a drone into the house. Tourney remarked that it is sad and sick to consider that he never knew who he was living next to.

Police believe Torres may have committed similar offenses in the past. He is known to have worked as a rideshare and food delivery driver. To help determine if there are other victims, the Apache Junction Police Department has posted a redacted photograph on social media. The image was found on Torres' phone, and investigators need the public's help to identify the room shown in the picture.

Data indicates the photo was taken on July 18 at approximately 7:30 p.m. outside a window. The blurred figure in the image is estimated to be a female between the ages of 14 and 25 with long, dark blonde or light brown hair. Detectives have highlighted specific features in the room that could aid in identification.

Key details in the photograph include a large black shag-style rug, green Crocs-style slip-on shoes, and a Sorry! board game. The room also features light-colored flooring with dark furniture, a rolling cart against the far wall, and a yellow Tidy Cats litter container along with a clear plastic jug near the window.

Anyone with information regarding the location of this room is urged to contact the Apache Junction Police Department tip line at 480-474-8585. Callers should reference Case #260924013 to ensure their information is directed to the correct investigation team.