Pennsylvania Prison Tower Guard Fired After Convicted Killer’s Daring Escape Sparks Massive Manhunt
A Pennsylvania Prison Tower Guard Fired After Overlooking Convicted Killer’s Escape
In a recent development, a Pennsylvania prison tower guard has been dismissed from duty for failing to detect or report the escape of convicted killer Danelo Cavalcante, who managed to slip away from the Chester County Prison just nine days ago. A source with knowledge of the decision confirmed this to CNN.
The corrections officer in question, an 18-year veteran of the prison system, was on duty when Cavalcante made his daring escape on August 31. The escape itself was a harrowing ordeal – Cavalcante utilized an unconventional method often referred to as “crab walking.” This technique involved navigating between two walls, scaling a fence, and traversing razor wire to break free from the Chester County Prison.
The aftermath of Cavalcante’s escape prompted a massive manhunt, involving the efforts of hundreds of officers from various agencies. Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “We have got somewhere north of 350, close to 400 people working on this today as we speak.”
The escape has sent shockwaves through the local community, leaving nearby residents on edge and instilling fear in the hearts of the victim’s grieving family. Despite the tension, there have been several reported sightings of Cavalcante, with around eight or nine deemed credible, according to Bivens.
Notably, some of these sightings occurred in the vicinity of Longwood Gardens, situated approximately 3 miles from the prison. This prompted authorities to temporarily close the popular botanical gardens as they scoured the area for the fugitive. However, they were unable to apprehend him.
Despite Cavalcante’s ability to elude capture thus far, Lt. Col. Bivens remains resolute in his belief that the fugitive will eventually be caught. He assured the public that a significant perimeter had been secured, and a tactical team was working tirelessly to close in on Cavalcante.
Regarding the delay in deploying such a large number of officers, Bivens explained that the number of personnel fluctuates based on operational needs, emphasizing the importance of resource allocation and balance.
Danelo Cavalcante, 34, had recently been convicted of first-degree murder for the brutal killing of his former girlfriend, 33-year-old Deborah Brandão, in Chester County in 2021. Tragically, Brandão was stabbed 38 times in front of her two children, who are now under the care of her sister.
Cavalcante’s criminal history extends beyond the borders of the United States; he is also wanted in connection with a 2017 homicide case in his native Brazil, as confirmed by a U.S. Marshals Service official.
Since Cavalcante’s escape, Deborah Brandão’s relatives in the area have been living in fear, taking refuge within their home with police protection around the clock. The sightings of Cavalcante have only added to their anxiety.
The search for Cavalcante has led to numerous reported sightings, some of which are as follows:
On August 31, Cavalcante was captured on jail surveillance video executing his daring escape from Chester County Prison, employing the “crab walking” technique to scale walls and navigate the prison yard. He then made a rooftop dash, scaled yet another fence, and navigated through razor wire to freedom.
On September 1, a resident of Pocopson Township, where the prison is located, reported seeing Cavalcante inside his home, taking food before leaving.
On September 2, Cavalcante was spotted on surveillance video approximately 1.5 miles from the prison.
On Monday, a security camera recorded the fugitive at Longwood Gardens.
On Tuesday, an area resident reported seeing Cavalcante in a creek bed on their property, according to Bivens.
Authorities have urged residents in the area to remain vigilant, as Cavalcante is considered dangerous and violent. Locking homes and car doors is strongly advised. The fugitive is described as approximately 5 feet tall, with long, curly black hair and brown eyes. A reward of $20,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.
Lt. Col. Bivens emphasized the importance of keeping pressure on Cavalcante, ensuring he has limited opportunities to obtain additional supplies or clothing. Meanwhile, some members of the community are growing restless due to the ongoing manhunt, with businesses reporting disruptions and increased demand for security measures until the fugitive is captured.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
