A person of interest has been arrested in a series of rapes that have terrorized Detroit's east side since Jan. 1, police said Wednesday.
Officer Dan Donakowski confirmed the arrest, but declined further comment.
Police Chief Ralph Godbee has said police have been testing DNA evidence during the past few days.
Authorities believe one man has terrorized the city's east side since Jan. 1, approaching women walking alone or standing by themselves at bus stops and forcing them to secluded areas where they have been assaulted.
At least seven women are believed to have been sexually assaulted by the man. An eighth woman was able to get away.
All the attacks happened within five miles of downtown Detroit.
Community groups and city residents have mobilized in recent days, patrolling portions of the city in search of the rapist and handing out fliers with composite drawings of the suspect to anyone who will take them.
The suspect is described as black, in his 30s and about 5-foot-9. All the victims are black, and they range in age from 17 to 33 years old, the chief said.
A number of men have been questioned and subsequently arrested for other offenses, including parole violations and gun crimes, Godbee said.
