By Khalida Sarwari
A man was arrested in Salinas Thursday on suspicion of raping and attempting to kill his ex-girlfriend, police said.
Baltemar Lopez, 39, was arrested at a home in the 1600 block of Boston Street.
Police believe on Wednesday night, Lopez forcibly went into his ex-girlfriend’s home, where he allegedly choked and severely beat her, causing her to momentarily lose consciousness. He then allegedly forced her to shower to wash off the blood from the assault and then proceeded to rape her, police said.
The victim was able to escape and call police in the morning, police said.
Lopez was booked into Monterey County jail on suspicion of rape, false imprisonment, and attempted murder.
Lopez had previously been arrested for domestic violence and stalking other people.
He and his ex-girlfriend had briefly dated several years ago and he had been trying to get back with her, police said. She had refused because she said he was physically abusive towards her, according to police.