Albuquerque police seek fugitive sexual assault suspect

Albuquerque police say they have issued a warrant for a man accused of raping and beating a 75-year-old woman.

Police say 55-year-old Ernest Casias was supposed to surrender to police Saturday but never showed up.

He is being charged with multiple counts including attempted murder and aggravated criminal sexual penetration.

Casias allegedly raped the woman in her home and then beat her with a hammer on March 7.

Police doing a welfare check found her covered in blood. According to a criminal complaint, she suffered a broken nose, fractured neck and had her dentures knocked out. She is still recovering in a hospital.

Investigators say Casias worked for the victim as a handyman.

Officials say anyone caught harboring him will be charged with a felony.