Ten inmates escaped from a New Orleans jail early on Friday, including several facing serious charges such as murder. Investigators believe individuals inside the facility assisted in the breakout.
The inmates fled from the Orleans Parish Justice Center, which primarily holds people awaiting trial or sentencing. During a routine head count on Friday morning, staff discovered the men—aged between 19 and 42—were missing.
The escape began around 1:00am local time. The group pulled a sliding cell door off its track and tore out a toilet and sink to create an opening in the wall. Surveillance footage shows them exiting through a loading dock, climbing a wall, and running across a nearby highway.
Authorities quickly recaptured two escapees. However, eight others remain on the run.
Sheriff Susan Hutson said some staff members likely helped the inmates. One employee watched the escape on camera but failed to report it. While the sheriff confirmed internal involvement, she did not reveal who was responsible or how the support was provided.
Several agencies are now involved in the search. Officials have urged residents to stay alert and report anything unusual.
Police located one escaped inmate hiding under a car in a hotel car park in the French Quarter, according to Louisiana State Police.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick expressed concern over how the jail handled the incident. She said her department received notice nearly two hours after the jail discovered the breakout. Kirkpatrick emphasised the importance of timely communication, especially since some of the escapees face murder charges.
In response, police have contacted people linked to the escapees. In one case, they moved a family from their home as a precaution.
