Stranger danger report leads to arrest near bus stop

Buckeye police arrested a registered sex offender last week after he allegedly followed and harassed a 12-year-old girl walking to her school bus stop near downtown Buckeye. The incident occurred on Friday, November 21, near Baseline and Pima Roads.

According to police, a mother reported that a man approached and harassed her daughter as she walked to the bus stop. Before officers arrived, staff at a nearby daycare noticed the interaction and brought the girl inside to wait safely for her bus. Employees told officers that the suspect had been trying to talk to the girl while walking near the area.

Based on information gathered at the scene, officers identified the suspect as 48 year old Adrian Villareal, who had an active warrant for failure to register as a sex offender. An officer patrolling the neighborhood located Villareal less than half a mile from the daycare. Police say Villareal ran into a backyard near Seventh Avenue and Deniza, leading to a brief standoff before he was taken into custody. He was booked on the warrant and on new charges of harassment and trespassing.

Police credited quick action by community members for helping protect the child and aiding in the arrest.

Beyond the arrest, the incident highlights the continued importance of teaching children to stay alert when walking to and from school, bus stops, parks, or other public places. Safety experts recommend that children travel with friends when possible, avoid talking to strangers, and immediately seek help from trusted adults if they feel uncomfortable or concerned. Parents and guardians are encouraged to regularly review safety practices with their children to help them recognize risky situations and respond quickly.

Buckeye police are sharing the suspect booking photo for public awareness and encourage residents to report suspicious behavior.