The Phoenix Police Department released security footage of a person of interest in the killing of 29-year-old Lauren Heike, showing an unknown suspect darting away from the crime scene.
Police officials claimed that Heike, an esthetician who recently moved to Phoneix from Washington state, was killed on a popular trail on Saturday. No arrest has been made, but the incident was caught on a security camera, and a search for an unnamed suspect is underway.
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"We believe someone would have noticed this person either before the attack or after he fled from our scene," Phoenix Homicide Lt. James Hester said in a press conference Wednesday. "The behavior, in my opinion, was so heinous that I would imagine that the subject would be displaying symptoms that look out of place."
The new security footage shows a suspect darting from the crime scene, which was on a desert trail. Police said they were notified of an injured person on the trail on Saturday morning, but Heike was later pronounced dead on the scene.
NEW INFO ON HOMICIDE investigation. Police are hoping someone can help them identify the person in this short video who may have info on a homicide case from 6500 E Libby Street. Anyone with info call police or @SilentwitnessAZ
— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) May 3, 2023
Original media advisory:https://t.co/8ITIbfihky pic.twitter.com/2vnwY840NC
Details about the crime are still limited as police are concerned information on the crime could harm the investigation, but police are urging the public to come forward if they saw a thin man with a dark complexion near the crime scene. The suspect is described as 5′8″ to 6′ tall, and he was wearing a gray or lighter-colored shirt, dark pants, a dark backpack, and shoes at the time of the attack.
It is not clear what type of weapon was used, or how Heike was killed. It is also not clear if she knew her killer, or if it was a random attack.
Police are also urging the public to remain safe as the investigation continues, and to bring a partner when going for a run or hike.
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"The safety of our community is our top priority," police officials said. "We would like to remind everyone to be aware of your surroundings. If a hike or walk is in your plans, do so with a partner. If you see something suspicious call police and be a good witness."
Anyone with information is asked to call Phoenix police. Anonymous tips can be sent through 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (480-837-8446). They can also be left on silentwitness.org. A reward of up to $2,000 has been offered for any credible information related to the case.