Authorities in the United States are searching for nine prisoners who escaped from a jail in New Orleans, Louisiana. The inmates, some of whom face murder charges, fled the Orleans Parish Jail around midnight and were discovered missing during a morning headcount on Friday.
One of the escapees, Kendall Myles, was caught later that day in the city’s popular French Quarter. He was found hiding under a car in a parking garage and has since been returned to jail. He now faces an additional charge of “simple escape.”
Local police say the remaining nine escapees are considered “armed and dangerous.” A manhunt involving the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and state and city police is ongoing. Authorities have released the names and photos of the fugitives, asking the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.
There are reports that the prisoners may have escaped by digging a hole under a toilet, though this has not been confirmed by officials. A photo released by the Sheriff’s office shows a large hole in a prison cell wall with exposed pipes.
New Orleans police chief Anne Kirkpatrick called the escape an “urgent and serious situation” and warned that the inmates likely received help. She added that those who assisted them will face charges.
The Orleans Parish Jail is located just 3 km from New Orleans’ famous French Quarter. Authorities say victims of the escaped inmates have been notified and the public should be cautious as the search continues.
