Story Published: Aug 5, 2009 at 5:54 PM PDT
Story Updated: Aug 6, 2009 at 12:43 PM PDT
WOODBURN, Ore. - Police in Woodburn are looking for a teenager who was kidnapped on Wednesday.
According to police, a man who worked with the father of 13-year-old Elvia Morales went to the girl's home and took her. Her 17-year-old cousin reportedly tried to stop the man, but was unable to keep him from taking the girl.
Earlier reports said Morales was 14 years old but KATU has learned she is actually 13 years old.
Family members said they considered the kidnapping suspect, 36-year-old Juan Martinez-Martinez, a family friend and that he sometimes had meals with them.
Police think that he may have left the area, possibly headed for California.
KATU News talked with Morales' father on Thursday and learned that a truck parked in the driveway of the Morales home was registered to Martinez-Martinez. Morales' father said Martinez-Martinez had been using the vehicle for a year and was making payments on it.
Kidnapped Teenager's Description
- Between 4 feet, 5 inches and 4 feet, 6 inches tall
- Long brown hair
- Blue jeans
- Aqua shirt
- White shoes
- Dime-sized birth mark on left arm
Suspect's Description
Elvia Morales is believed to be with 36-year-old Juan Martinez-Martinez. - He is described as being 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing 145 pounds.
Vehicle Description
- Police are looking for a vehicle as well - a black or dark blue sedan, possibly an older-model Saturn.
The FBI is helping with the investigation and officials are trying to determine whether an Amber Alert should be issued. Police fear the suspect may be driving to California.