- An 85-year-old man intervened to stop an attempted kidnapping of a 25-year-old caretaker in Medford, Oregon.
- Matthew Hokulii Aranda, a registered sex offender, posed as a utility worker before the attack.
- Aranda was charged with multiple offenses, including attempted kidnapping and assault, after the incident on May 8.
MEDFORD, OREGON — Days after an Oregon man with 166 arrests was sentenced to life in prison after a mall flashing incident, another Oregon case involving a registered sex offender is drawing attention. This time, police say an 85-year-old man helped stop an attempted kidnapping after hearing a woman scream outside his home.
The incident happened on May 8 in a mobile home park in Medford, Oregon. Authorities say 42-year-old Matthew Hokulii Aranda posed as a utility worker and waited for several hours before targeting a 25-year-old caretaker.
Elderly Man Heard Screaming
The 85-year-old man, who has not been publicly named, was inside his mobile home when he heard the woman screaming.
He went outside and found Aranda allegedly attacking the woman while armed with a taser. Police say the elderly man confronted Aranda, giving the victim enough time to break free and run to her car.
Authorities say Aranda then tased the elderly man and continued chasing the woman.
Suspect Chased Victim With Knife
Police said Aranda also had a large hunting knife during the attack. The victim managed to get into her car as Aranda chased her.
As she started to drive away, Aranda allegedly jumped onto the hood of the car. The woman was able to shake him off and escape. Aranda fell from the vehicle and injured his leg, according to reports.
Deputies later found him hiding in a nearby bush. Body camera footage released by the sheriff’s office showed officers pulling him from the bushes before arresting him.
Suspect Allegedly Posed as Utility Worker
Authorities say Aranda was dressed in plain clothing and had been pretending to be a utility worker before the attack.
Investigators believe he waited in the area for hours before going after the caretaker. Police have not released the condition of the woman or the elderly man.
Aranda was indicted on May 14 on multiple charges, including attempted kidnapping, assault, stalking, unlawful use of a weapon, and menacing.
Prior Criminal History
Reports say Aranda is a registered sex offender. In 2016, he was convicted in a case involving a 16-year-old girl he sexually exploited and stalked. He was sentenced to more than six years in prison in that case.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is still active.
For now, the 85-year-old man is being praised for stepping in during a dangerous moment and helping the victim get away.
To view more cases involving attempted kidnappings, dangerous suspects, and brave bystanders who stepped in to help, check out our video here:
