Pearce, Arizona — Authorities have arrested a man after a 75-year-old woman was kidnapped and her 67-year-old boyfriend was found dead in their home.
The incident unfolded Friday, when the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 8:10 p.m. about a reported kidnapping in Pearce, Arizona, located about 80 miles southeast of Tucson. According to the sheriff’s office, the woman told deputies that around 3:00 p.m. that afternoon, a masked man dressed in dark clothing entered the workshop at the rear of her home, pointing a gun at her.
The woman explained that the man restrained her, blindfolded her, and she then heard several loud noises. As nightfall approached, the suspect forced the victim into her silver 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche and placed her in the back seat, according to police reports. Authorities said the suspect drove off, but when the vehicle stopped, the woman seized the chance to break free from her restraints and flee.
She ran to a nearby residence and sought help. The woman also informed deputies that she believed the suspect had gone into a local Dollar General store, thinking she was still inside. While talking to police, she urged them to check on her boyfriend at their home.
When deputies arrived at the residence, they received no response after attempting to make contact. Forced entry was made into the home, and authorities discovered the boyfriend, a 67-year-old man, dead inside. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
The man accused of the crime, identified as Rynn Prairie-Rocca, was apprehended following the investigation. Authorities are continuing to investigate the details surrounding the kidnapping and the death of the victim.