Male Suspect on the Run After Assaulting Woman, Kidnapping Baby

WYOMING, Minn. (FOX 9) – A man assaulted a mother and kidnapped her 6-month-old child and is now on the run, according to the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office.

Officials say the mother was assaulted in a vehicle on I-35 and then again in a gas station bathroom in Wyoming, Minnesota. A man identified as 37-year-old Ben Tietz “forcibly” took the baby from the mother and also took her vehicle.

Tietz is the non-custodial father of the child, who is named Leo.

The baby has been found safe, but the suspect is still not in custody, according to the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office.

The criteria in this incident didn’t meet the AMBER requirement but we are still looking for the suspect. Child has been located.

2002 Silver Chevy Monte Carlo SS
MN Plates: 572TZT pic.twitter.com/TzEGXvzzj4

— Chisago Co Sheriff (@ChisagoCountySO) December 26, 2019

Authorities say Tietz was in a 2002 silver Chevrolet Monte Carlo with the MN license plate 572TZT.

Tietz is believed to be armed with large knives, but it is unknown if he has firearms.

Tietz was seen wearing a black and gray hoodie. He is described as having facial hair and weighing about 250 pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to contact 911.