A manhunt is underway in Houston, Texas, after an inmate escaped by crawling out of a pipe, holding a district attorney’s staff member at knifepoint, and jumping into a nearby bayou.
Nigel Thomas Sanders, 35, escaped during a court appearance, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Chief Phillip Bosquez said at a news conference Thursday night. Arrests by law enforcement agencies.
“It appears he facilitated the escape on his way back from court,” Bosquez said.
Sanders was taken into custody on three burglary charges and one count of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, police said.
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The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has identified the fugitive as Joshua Nigel Thomas Sanders, 35, approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 140 pounds. He is considered dangerous. (Harris County Sheriff’s Office)
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has identified the fugitive as Joshua Nigel Thomas Sanders. (Harris County Sheriff’s Office)
Bosquez said they were alerted about Sanders’ possible escape at 3:30 p.m. Thursday.
While escaping, he accosted a woman and jumped into her car, but she destroyed it just feet away.
After the vehicle was totaled in the crash, the suspect fled the area on foot.
Police said that was the last time he was seen.
On Thursday afternoon, law enforcement in Houston, Texas, responded to a report that an inmate had escaped from jail. (guilty)
The University of Houston-Downtown issued a lockdown order in response to the search, but later lifted the lockdown.
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“Ultra HD Alert: Security! Police action outside city center” X alert read. “Go inside immediately. Lock exterior doors. Avoid windows. Police Department responded.”
Harris County Police say Joshua Nigel Thomas Sanders should be considered armed and dangerous. (guilty)
Authorities said Sanders should be considered armed and dangerous.
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Law enforcement is still searching for the fugitive, noting he was last seen wearing orange pants and a black shirt.
