A possible suspect in the kidnapping and killing of 17-year-old Moreno Valley teen Norma Lopez lived directly across the street from where she took her final steps.
Jesse Perez Torres was arrested by Moreno Valley police about 10 a.m. Thursday in Long Beach. He was booked on suspicion of murder and kidnapping to commit rape. Authorities have not confirmed if he is the suspect in Norma’s killing.
Prior to living in Long Beach, Torres lived at a home facing Valley View High School off Nason Street in Moreno Valley, according to court records.
Norma was abducted July 15, 2010, when she was walking home from summer school classes. Police believe she took a shortcut, walking down Nason to Dracaea Avenue where she cut across a field en route to a friend’s house.
When Norma didn’t arrive, she was reported missing. Family and police located signs of a struggle and found Norma’s belongings. A green SUV was seen speeding away from the scene, but was not located.
Torres was sued in April for failure to pay $2,228 in homeowner’s fees, past due monthly assessments and other violations. The case was dismissed by a homeowners association at the next hearing.
Authorities have not confirmed any arrest or addresses where a suspect may have lived. Authorities announced an update in the homicide case would be given at noon at Moreno Valley city Hall.
