Authorities in Arizona have arrested a man after a harrowing kidnapping incident in which a 75-year-old woman was abducted, only to return home and discover her boyfriend dead inside their residence. The incident occurred in Pearce, Arizona, approximately 80 miles southeast of Tucson, when deputies from the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a kidnapping on the evening of January 5th, 2025.
According to the woman’s account, the ordeal began around 3 p.m. when she was in the workshop at the rear of her home. A man, dressed in dark clothing and wearing a mask, entered the workshop and pointed a gun at her. The suspect restrained the woman, blindfolded her, and the next few hours were filled with confusion and fear as she heard several loud noises, although she couldn’t discern what was happening.
As night fell, the suspect moved the woman into her vehicle, a 2007 silver Chevrolet Avalanche, and forced her into the back seat. The woman, however, saw an opportunity when the vehicle stopped, and she managed to break free from her restraints. In a desperate bid for safety, she ran to a nearby home, where she sought help.
Once the woman was safe and able to speak with deputies, she informed them that the suspect had entered a local Dollar General store, unaware that she had escaped. She also urged law enforcement to check on her boyfriend at their home. Deputies responded quickly, but when they arrived at the residence, no one answered the door. Concerned, they forced their way inside, where they discovered the woman’s 67-year-old boyfriend deceased.
Law enforcement quickly identified the suspect as 37-year-old Rynn Prairie-Rocca. Authorities were able to locate him near Catclaw Road and Highway 181. Prairie-Rocca barricaded himself for roughly 90 minutes, but after negotiations, he was taken into custody. He was transported to the Cochise County Jail, though the charges he faces have not yet been disclosed.
At this time, investigators have not confirmed whether the incident was a random act or if Prairie-Rocca had any prior connection to the victims. Additionally, authorities have not released information regarding the cause of death for the male victim. The case remains under investigation, and law enforcement is working to piece together the details of the tragic event.
This shocking case has left the small community of Pearce in disbelief, as residents process the violent nature of the crime and the tragic loss of life. The woman, though physically unharmed, is understandably shaken by the traumatic events she experienced. As authorities continue their investigation, they are urging anyone with information to come forward.
