Someone likely helped the attempted murder suspect at the center of a statewide manhunt escape officers on Thursday evening, Oregon law enforcement officials say, adding that he might be using dating apps to lure potential victims or get assistance while on the run.
Benjamin Obadiah Foster, 36, is wanted on an attempted murder charge after investigators linked him to an assault in Grants Pass on Tuesday night. He's accused of torturing a woman that he was holding captive; authorities say she's currently in critical condition.
Investigators served a search warrant on Thursday evening, with the help of an Oregon State Police SWAT team and the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, at a property in Wolf Creek.
“Foster evaded capture and likely received assistance in fleeing the area,” Grants Pass Police said. “Numerous items of evidence, including Foster’s 2008 Nissan Sentra, were seized during the search.”
Officers arrested Tina Marie Jones, 68, of Wolf Creek, for hindering prosecution. She was booked into the Josephine County Jail.
Investigators say they believe Foster is using online dating apps to “contact unsuspecting individuals who may be lured into assisting with the suspect’s escape or potentially as additional victims.”
The Grants Pass Police Department wants the community to be extra safe while this predator is still at large and also advises that anyone assisting Ben Foster with his escape will face potential prosecution.
There’s a $2,500 reward for information that can lead to Foster’s arrest and prosecution. You can submit a tip at (541) 237-5607.
Foster is considered extremely dangerous. If you see him, call 911.