NewsNation

5 inmates escape Missouri jail, leave in stolen car

ST. FRANCOIS COUNTY, Mo. (KTVI) — Police in Missouri are searching for five inmates who escaped from a detention facility on Tuesday.

A chief deputy with the St. Francois County Jail believes the inmates escaped from the roof, via a plumbing chase, at approximately 7 p.m.


Around 10 p.m., they were noticed missing during a routine check.

A news release issued by the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department indicated that the men had gathered in a secured cell before using “force” to bust through a secured door. They then made their way to the roof, and eventually off jail property. Photos released by the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department appear to show the inmates fleeing.

Around 15 minutes later, surveillance cameras captured the group stealing a dark grey 2009 Toyota Scion from a nearby parking lot.

The inmates were last observed heading in a “southerly direction,” according to the sheriff’s department.

Authorities say the inmates had removed their orange clothing, and most were wearing “white thermal leggings, white boxer and/or basketball shorts and white T-shirts.”

Authorities released descriptions of the five escapees:

The sheriff’s office is urging locals to refrain from engaging with or confronting the escapees. Anyone with spots a member of the group is urged to call 911 immediately. Anyone with information into their whereabouts is instructed to contact the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department at (573) 756-3252 or Joint Communications at (573) 431-3131.

The Toyota Scion they’re believed to be driving had a Missouri temporary tag on the back of the car. There was no front plate.