Authorities are expanding their search for Zymire Hughes, 22, a suspect accused of terrorizing multiple individuals in Philadelphia while wearing a Chucky mask, to include California and Nevada. Hughes is wanted on charges including making terroristic threats, harassment, simple assault, reckless endangerment, and witness intimidation. Police believe he may have traveled to the West Coast for employment reasons.
Philadelphia Police Captain Jason Smith stated that Hughes has a history of traveling between Philadelphia and the Los Angeles area or Las Vegas for work. Law enforcement agencies in Southern California and Nevada are now monitoring transportation hubs and following up on potential sightings.
Incident Details
The investigation began after a 40-year-old female jogger reported being stalked by a man in a Chucky mask on August 12. According to police, Hughes approached the jogger, asked if she was 'ready to die,' and pursued her when she attempted to flee and scream for help. The woman sustained a leg injury during her escape. Cameras captured the suspect chasing the jogger near City Hall around 5:30 a.m.
Investigators released images of the suspect, showing him with the Chucky mask and a blue plaid backpack. Police also noted that Hughes has a prior probation for an unspecified crime in Montgomery County.
Additional Encounters
Another individual, who identified herself only as Jameka, reported a similar encounter shortly after the jogger incident. She stated that a man matching Hughes' description approached her with his phone in hand, seemingly filming. After she warned the jogger, Jameka said the suspect attempted to enter a local coffee shop, was denied entry, and then turned his attention to her. She reported screaming at him and preparing to defend herself before he ran away. She described the suspect as appearing 'disoriented.'
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner condemned the suspect's actions, stating, "If Zymire Hughes was trying to scare people, make them run. Who's scared now? Who's running now? ... You think it's funny to scare people? Well, get ready to get scared by us because we got the handcuffs. We got the jail cell. We got the Philly jury that's going to tell you it's not funny at all."
Authorities are urging anyone in the Los Angeles area who spots Hughes to contact police immediately. Those in Philadelphia who may have also been victims of similar incidents are encouraged to reach out to the Central Detective Division.