Atwater man beat girlfriend, police say

Atwater police say Rogoberto Juarez was arguing with his girlfriend in the 2400 block of Palm Avenue. Juarez grabbed the woman by the hair and repeatedly struck her in the head and face, according to Lt. Samuel Joseph.

The victim tried to defend herself, but was pulled from her Ford Explorer as she was trying to put it in gear, Joseph said.

Juarez got into the Explorer, and the victim's family members tried to pull him out of the vehicle. Juarez then began to drive away, dragging the victim's mother for a short distance, Joseph said.

Juarez escaped, and police later found the victim's Explorer abandoned nearby. Juarez had three outstanding warrants for his arrest at the time of the incident.

Atwater police are asking anyone with information about Juarez's whereabouts to call (209) 357-6396. Tips are kept confidential, and callers can remain anonymous.