In a shocking incident, eleven adult men escaped from a New Orleans jail on Friday, prompting officials from the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office to issue a warning. Authorities have classified these escapees as armed and dangerous, urging the public to stay vigilant.
Among the escapees, Kendall Myles has already been apprehended in the French Quarter, a popular tourist destination located less than 3 miles from the Orleans Justice Center, as reported by the Louisiana State Police. However, ten other inmates remain at large, including Gary Price, who faces serious charges of attempted first-degree murder.
The alarming discovery was made during a routine headcount at the Orleans Justice Center at 8:30 a.m. on Friday. Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson addressed reporters, confirming that the inmates were unaccounted for and urging the public to remain alert. She emphasized that the sheriff's department is collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to initiate a comprehensive search operation.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick reported that a group believed to be victims of the inmates had been swiftly removed from their homes to ensure their safety. She also called on witnesses of the inmates' crimes to take similar precautions and to report any suspicious activity.
Kirkpatrick expressed concerns that the inmates may have received assistance during their escape and likely changed out of their jail clothes. "We don’t want to incite panic, but we do want people to be mindful," she stated, reinforcing the need for community awareness.
Sheriff Hutson described the escape as a "very serious and unacceptable" incident. She announced the launch of a full investigation to uncover how the escape happened, which will include a review of facility protocols, staff performance, and physical security measures. Additionally, she vowed that anyone who aided the inmates in their escape would be held accountable.
This is a developing story, and authorities are working diligently to locate the remaining escapees. For the latest updates on this situation, please check back frequently.