Police Search For Domestic Violence Suspect In Mission Viejo

MISSION VIEJO, CA — Police in Mission Viejo are searching for a domestic violence suspect, according to Orange County Sheriff's Department Lieutenant John Roche.

OCSD is actively looking for a white male suspect, approximately 6’2 – 6’3, thin build, in the area of Marguerite Parkway and Crown Valley Parkway for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend today and then stealing her car keys.

“OCSD received the call at just before 6:15 a.m. Wednesday," Roche said. Officers were searching for the male suspect in the area directly next to the Saddleback College, however, the college was not being searched, according to Roche.

The OCSD "Duke" helicopter searched the area for the suspect, and warned the public by making an announcement over loudspeakers, however the helicopter search was suspended by 1:30 p.m.

"Neither the Shops at Mission Viejo or the nearby Saddleback College was involved in the search," Roche said. “The suspect is unarmed, and the public is not in danger. However, if anyone see’s a male of this build and description hiding in their backyard, call 911.”

Lieutenant Wayne Rehnelts of OCSD said the suspect was last seen running in the area of the Lexus dealership, across Marguerite.

The suspect, whose name has not been released, may be arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, according to Rehnelts.

Many in the area are discussing the police activity online and putting out warnings on social media. Residents of neighboring communities like Mission Viejo, Las Flores, Coto de Caza, Rancho Mission Viejo may have noticed the Sheriff’s activity if they were anywhere in the area today. Marguerite and Crown Valley is a major intersection in South OC that connects travelers getting off of the 241 Toll Road at Oso Parkway.

Mission Hospital, the area’s regional trauma center, is also directly in the middle of the area where OCSD is searching for the suspect.

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