ANCHORAGE, Alaska — A 21-year-old fugitive has been charged with attempted murder in the assault of a woman found barely alive in an Anchorage ditch.
Police said Bukurim Miftari, who had a domestic relationship with the injured woman, 30-year-old Kristen Reid, is suspected of severely beating her.
She remained unconscious and in critical condition Tuesday afternoon. Miftari remained at large and is considered armed and dangerous.
"He is known to have carried guns in the past, and so having a weapon on him is likely," said police spokeswoman Anita Shell.
Police believe Miftari will attempt to flee Alaska, Shell said. He may seek assistance from friends and relatives in Anchorage, Shell said, and police warned that anyone who helps him can face criminal prosecution.
Police have notified agencies around the state to watch for Miftari, Shell said.
The investigation began early Monday morning with the discovery of a sport utility vehicle parked in the middle of Fairbanks Street north of International Airport Road on the east side of midtown Anchorage.
The inside of the SUV was stained with blood.
Investigating officers found the severely injured Reid nearby in a ditch. Investigators have not said whether weapon was used in the assault, or whether Reid walked to the ditch or was left there.
"That is part of the investigation," Shell said. "There are still a lot of missing pieces to this one."
Police also have not released Reid's specific injuries.
"We need to filter the information that is coming in to determine if it's credible," she said.
Detectives determined that Reid was trying to end her relationship with Miftari, Shell said.
Police announced late Monday that Miftari as a "person of interest" in the case. Their investigation led them to a home near Old Seward Highway and Grange Street at about 9 p.m. As officers approached, however, Miftari escaped out a back window, Shell said.
A search aided by an Alaska State Troopers helicopter and multiple canine units failed to find Miftari. A perimeter set up in the area was broken down at about 2 a.m.
Miftari is 5 feet 11 inches tall, about 170 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.