Man wanted in Phoenix homicide case arrested in Las Vegas

By Jackie Valley

Published Monday, Feb. 14, 2011 | 12:15 p.m.

Updated Monday, Feb. 14, 2011 | 1:02 p.m.

A 53-year-old man wanted in connection with a Phoenix homicide was arrested Sunday in Las Vegas after officers recognized him and his vehicle, officials said.

Metro spokesman Marcus Martin said officers arrested Wade Mitchell Ridley at 4:36 a.m. Sunday in the 4000 block of Paradise Road near the Hard Rock Hotel.

Ridley's appearance and vehicle matched the description sent to Las Vegas authorities by the Phoenix Police Department, Martin said.

Phoenix Police Sgt. Steve Martos said Ridley allegedly broke into the home of his ex-girlfriend, 62-year-old Anne Simenson, and killed her Thursday afternoon in the northeast part of the city.

Ridley then allegedly stole Simenson's vehicle and committed an armed robbery a half-mile away at a Safeway pharmacy, where he stole prescription medication, Martos said.

Phoenix Police identified Ridley as the suspect and knew he had ties to the Las Vegas area, Martos said.

Simenson, who had a new boyfriend, previously had filed police reports alleging that Ridley was stalking and harassing her after their breakup, Martos said.

Ridley allegedly confessed to his involvement in the crimes when interviewed by Phoenix detectives following his arrest in Las Vegas, Martos said.

Martin said police are investigating whether Ridley committed crimes in Las Vegas, including a possible assault. Citing the ongoing investigation, police weren't releasing other details about the alleged crimes or when they might have taken place.

Ridley was booked into the Clark County Detention Center on a fugitive charge, where he is being held without bail, according to jail records. His first hearing before a judge is scheduled for Tuesday.