Fremont sex assault suspect pinned down by witnesses
FREMONT, Calif. - Community members in Fremont held a 27-year-old kidnapping and sex assault suspect down until police could arrive and take him to Santa Rita Jail.
Fremont police said that the residents helped a woman after she said she was pulled to the ground and assaulted by a stranger on Monday about 9:10 p.m. at Fremont Boulevard and Eggers Drive.
The woman told police that she struck a man identified as Marvin Velasquez of Fremont several times before he allegedly sexually assaulted her. She told police she had no prior connection to Velasquez and didn't know him.
As the assault was happening, residents found out and pinned Velasquez down, police said.
"It's horrific on every level. You never want to see this happen," said Sgt. Kim Macdonald with Fremont police.
Marvin Velasquez, 27, Fremont. Photo: Fremont PD
The area where this happened is lined with schools, churches and businesses.
"He dragged her down, and then he struck her in the face, prior to committing the sexual assault," Macdonald said.
Police said they are grateful for the good Samaritans who pinned the suspect down. "It was very heroic of those people," Macdonald said of the two people who stopped to help.
Police said the crime was so violent and so public, they fear this wasn't a first offense.
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Residents took this as a wake-up call.
"I think I'll be more cautious. I have to be more aware," said Valerie Ruiz.
"Usually I have a pretty good sixth sense. I keep an eye on things. I'm always alert. I don't look at my phone too much," said Lillian Ng of Fremont.
But more than afraid, residents say they are sad.
"Because I want to live here, and I want to feel comfortable and safe here. And you know you almost don't sometimes," said Kelsey Walker of Fremont.
Police said they are looking for other victims. They're also hoping additional witnesses in this case will come forward.
Velasquez was booked on suspicion of kidnapping with intent to rape, sexual penetration with a foreign object, and assault with a deadly weapon and battery. His arraignment is set for Thursday.
If you have information, please contact Detective Blanchet at 510-790-6900, or at rblanchet@fremont.gov.