Authorities in eastern Pennsylvania are still in pursuit of Danelo Cavalcante, a convicted murderer who escaped from the Chester County Prison on August 31 by scaling a wall, climbing over razor wire, and then jumping off of a roof. Despite numerous sightings, Cavalcante remains at large, prompting heightened concern among local residents.
The search for Cavalcante has now entered its eighth day, with authorities expanding their efforts to locate him. Recent sightings include one in a creek bed on Tuesday night, where he managed to evade capture by fleeing into nearby woods. Another potential sighting was reported near Longwood Gardens, a popular botanical garden nearly three miles from the prison. The property was cleared of guests, and the gardens remain closed until further notice.
Pennsylvania State Trooper James McKee noted that authorities have increased their search perimeter but have not issued a new reverse 911 call to alert residents of potential danger. This decision reflects ongoing efforts to maintain a secure perimeter as the manhunt continues.
Cavalcante, 34, was convicted of first-degree murder in August for the 2021 fatal stabbing of his former girlfriend, Deborah Brandão, in Chester County. His escape from prison involved scaling walls, crossing roofs, and navigating razor wire, which was caught on surveillance video. Authorities have expressed frustration that prison staff did not detect the escape as it unfolded, and the tower guard responsible for overseeing prisoners during the escape is currently on administrative leave pending an investigation.
In addition to his murder conviction, Cavalcante is also wanted in a 2017 homicide case in his native country of Brazil, according to a U.S. Marshals Service official.
The search for Cavalcante has involved hundreds of law enforcement personnel and search dogs, with some challenges posed by extreme weather conditions, rugged terrain, and the lack of physical evidence left behind by the fugitive.
While authorities continue their relentless pursuit of Cavalcante, residents in the area have been advised to secure their homes and vehicles, and two local school districts have canceled classes for at least part of the week due to safety concerns.
This manhunt has raised questions about the security measures at Chester County Prison, especially in light of a similar escape by another inmate, Igor Bolte, in May. Bolte was caught within minutes, while Cavalcante remains at large. An investigation will look into whether the two escapees had any connections.
Prison officials have indicated that steps have been taken to enhance security at the facility, including potential measures like adding a guard to the exercise yard. However, the escape incidents have prompted a reevaluation of the prison’s security protocols.
