PHILADELPHIA — In a dramatic turn of events, the suspect who allegedly instilled fear among Philadelphia’s residents by donning a disturbing mask has been apprehended in Nevada, officials revealed on Tuesday.
Law enforcement reported that 22-year-old Zymire Hughes was captured by the U.S. Marshals Service Nevada Violent Offender Task Force around 8 p.m. in Las Vegas. Hughes is currently detained at the Clark County Detention Center as he waits to be extradited back to Pennsylvania.
According to investigators, Hughes was responsible for chasing and intimidating individuals in Center City during the early hours of August 15. Authorities suspect his motives might have been fueled by a desire for viral fame on social media platforms.
(The video in the player above is from previous coverage.)
Philadelphia Police Captain Jason Smith shared that Hughes confronted approximately 15 to 16 individuals on that fateful morning, spreading unease throughout the community.
In several incidents, police said Hughes approached victims while wearing what authorities described as a “distinctive Chucky doll-style Halloween mask.”
The first reported encounter occurred around 5:01 a.m. near 10th and Chestnut streets.
READ MORE | ‘Who’s scared now?’: Manhunt for masked man accused of terrorizing people in Philadelphia
Police said the incidents culminated near City Hall and SEPTA’s Suburban Station shortly before 6 a.m.
According to investigators, Hughes approached a woman who was jogging near City Hall and asked her, “Are you ready to die?”
Police said the woman ran away screaming for help and seriously injured her leg while trying to escape.
“It’s going to require extensive medical treatment, from what I understand, in order to treat the injuries that she has sustained,” Smith said last week.
WATCH: New videos show suspect wanted for terrorizing Philly residents
Surveillance video shows Hughes entering Suburban Station around 5:35 a.m., where SEPTA police reportedly asked him to remove the mask. Investigators said he attempted to conceal his identity while moving through the station.
Police said Hughes continued trying to frighten people before evading officers. Authorities believe he boarded a Route 33 bus at about 5:59 a.m. and traveled to the area of 23rd and Venango streets, where he reportedly lives.
Officials said Hughes also has ties to California and Las Vegas because of employment.
Police have said Hughes is wanted on charges including terroristic threats, harassment, simple assault and intimidation.
This is a developing story. This article will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.
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