PHILADELPHIA, PA. (THECOUNT) — Zymire Hughes, 22, has been identified by Philadelphia police as the suspect accused of terrorizing pedestrians and chasing a woman while wearing a doll mask resembling the horror character Chucky in Center City earlier this month.
Police said the alleged incidents occurred Aug. 12 near the 1500 block of John F. Kennedy Boulevard. An arrest warrant has been issued for Hughes, who authorities believe may have left Pennsylvania and has connections to California and Nevada.
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Philadelphia police said they are working with the U.S. Marshals Service in an effort to locate Hughes and return him to Pennsylvania to face the allegations.
The most serious reported encounter involved a 40-year-old woman who was walking through Center City at approximately 5:30 a.m. when Hughes allegedly approached her wearing the doll mask and began chasing her.
According to police, Hughes made threatening comments while keeping one hand behind his back. Investigators previously told NBC Philadelphia that he repeatedly asked the woman, “Are you ready to die?” while holding a cellphone toward her face.
The woman attempted to flee and stumbled, suffering a serious leg injury, according to police. Philadelphia Police Capt. Jason Smith said the injury is expected to require extensive medical treatment.
Police said Hughes fled toward SEPTA’s Suburban Station following the encounter.
Investigators said the incident involving the woman was reportedly preceded by a series of encounters with other pedestrians that morning.
According to police, Hughes was allegedly harassing people near 15th and Chestnut streets shortly before the pursuit of the woman. He was also reportedly denied service at a coffee shop.
Police said Hughes was later seen near 15th Street and South Penn Square at approximately 5:25 a.m., where he allegedly attempted to frighten other pedestrians.
Authorities said Hughes allegedly chased a man before turning his attention to the 40-year-old woman. Surveillance video released by Philadelphia police captured portions of the encounters.
Another woman, identified by ABC 7 as Jameka, said she attempted to warn the woman that the masked man was following her. Jameka said Hughes then turned toward her, prompting her to scream for help and kick him in the chest.
Police later learned that Hughes had reportedly been seen leaving his apartment Tuesday, Aug. 18, carrying packed bags. Investigators believe he may have left the area.
Capt. Smith said investigators believe the alleged conduct may have been connected to social media, suggesting Hughes may have intended to record the encounters for entertainment or possible financial gain. That remains an allegation by investigators and has not been established in court.
If apprehended, Hughes could face multiple charges, including terroristic threats, simple assault and intimidation, according to authorities.
Police are asking anyone with information about Hughes’ whereabouts or the reported incidents to contact the Philadelphia Police Department’s Central Detective Division at 215-686-3047 or 215-686-3048.
Philadelphia is Pennsylvania’s largest city and sits along the Delaware River in the southeastern part of the state, roughly 95 miles southwest of New York City.
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