Two New Orleans Prison Escapees Captured in Texas After High-Speed Chase
In a dramatic turn of events, two of the inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish jail in New Orleans have been apprehended in Texas. Leo Tate and Jermaine Donald were arrested in Huntsville, Walker County, following a high-speed chase that involved multiple law enforcement agencies. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing search for the fugitives who made national headlines after their daring escape nearly ten days ago.
The Arrest and High-Speed Chase
The capture of Tate and Donald took place late in the afternoon, around 6:30 p.m., near the intersection of US 190 and Geneva, just about two miles from Walker County jail. Authorities reported that after spotting the SUV believed to be carrying the escapees, local police and the U.S. Marshals Service attempted to pull the vehicle over. However, the suspects refused to stop, triggering a high-speed pursuit that ultimately ended with the vehicle crashing.
Following the crash, both men were taken into custody without further incident. Photos shared by the Huntsville Police Department on social media showed the two men handcuffed and in custody, underscoring the success of the operation. At the time of their arrest, both Tate and Donald were booked on charges of evading law enforcement.
The Manhunt and Investigation Efforts
The investigation and manhunt have been led by the U.S. Marshals Service, with assistance from the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitive Task Force. Authorities revealed that the task force had been following multiple tips throughout the day that indicated the escapees were in the Huntsville area. Vigilant coordination among the agencies involved allowed them to identify the suspects’ vehicle and respond quickly.
This case has attracted widespread attention since the original escape on May 16th. The event itself was startling due to the inmates’ resourcefulness and the scale of their breakout, which involved ten men escaping simultaneously from a high-security facility.
How the Escape Happened
The escape was executed in a bold and unconventional manner. The inmates reportedly lifted a cell door off its rack, pulled a toilet away from the wall, and crawled through a hole. From there, they forced their way out of the loading dock area of the jail. The group then ran across a nearby highway to freedom, causing chaos and prompting a massive manhunt.
In the aftermath of the escape, authorities launched a comprehensive investigation that revealed inside help may have facilitated the breakout. A jail maintenance worker has been charged with aiding the escapees, indicating the possibility of collusion within the jail system. This discovery raised serious concerns about security lapses and accountability at the Orleans Parish jail.
Status of the Escapees
With the recent arrests of Leo Tate and Jermaine Donald, only two inmates remain at large. Alongside them, a third escapee was apprehended earlier today in Baton Rouge. The fugitives still on the run have been identified as Anto Massey and Derrick Groves.
Authorities have warned the public against assisting the remaining escapees in any way. Officials have made it clear that anyone caught harboring or aiding these individuals will face legal consequences and arrest. The urgency of recapturing these men remains high as law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to bring the fugitives back into custody.
Next Steps for the Captured Inmates
Currently, both Tate and Donald are held in Walker County jail on charges related to evading law enforcement officers during the recent pursuit. Plans are underway to extradite them back to Louisiana, where they will face further charges related to the original escape and any other pending criminal allegations.
The capture represents a major breakthrough for law enforcement, who have been under intense public pressure to resolve this case swiftly. The successful apprehension sends a strong message about the reach and determination of authorities in responding to such serious security breaches.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Response
The escape and subsequent manhunt have significantly impacted both the New Orleans and Huntsville communities. The audacity of the escape highlighted vulnerabilities in the correctional system and raised concerns about public safety. The multi-agency collaboration between local police, federal marshals, and task forces demonstrated the seriousness with which authorities have treated the situation.
Residents in both Louisiana and Texas have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially in areas where the remaining fugitives might attempt to hide. The investigation continues, with law enforcement urging the public to assist by providing tips and information.
Conclusion
The arrest of Leo Tate and Jermaine Donald marks a critical milestone in the ongoing saga of the Orleans Parish jail escape. Their capture after a high-speed chase in Texas not only removes two dangerous individuals from the streets but also narrows the search to just two remaining fugitives. While the investigation and manhunt are not yet over, law enforcement’s success so far underscores their commitment to public safety and justice. As these two men are returned to custody in Louisiana, the authorities remain focused on ensuring the remaining escapees are brought to justice as swiftly as possible.
