Philadelphia, PA - An inmate identified as 34-year-old Gino Hagenkotter has escaped from the Riverside Correctional Facility in the Holmesburg section of Philadelphia, according to city officials. The escape occurred on Thursday afternoon behind the Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center (PICC), prompting a city-wide manhunt to locate the fugitive.

Authorities reported that Hagenkotter, who was participating in a good behavior program as part of his incarceration, managed to escape while working on an orchard detail assignment within the prison property. While under the supervision of a prison guard, Hagenkotter requested to use the bathroom. However, after failing to return within a reasonable timeframe, the guard discovered that the inmate had absconded.

Surveillance footage revealed that Hagenkotter climbed over a prison fence at 11:48 a.m., making his way towards the complex's sanitation yard. He was later spotted on Torresdale Avenue in Philadelphia, further prompting concerns about public safety.

Authorities are actively working to locate Hagenkotter, applying for an escape felony warrant, and reviewing surveillance videos in the vicinity of the prison. The U.S. Marshals Service has also joined the search efforts in coordination with the Philadelphia Police Department.

Despite shedding some clothing, including his jumpsuit, Hagenkotter was last seen wearing blue pants, black boots, and a short-sleeved white shirt. Philadelphia police responded promptly after the escape, establishing a perimeter and deploying patrol officers and K9 units to aid in the search.

As a precautionary measure, all Philadelphia prison facilities were placed on lockdown, and visits were suspended. The city emphasized that the escape was not a result of staffing issues.

Hagenkotter had been incarcerated for theft and burglary charges and qualified for an outside work assignment based on his behavior. He was slated to be released into a transitional program on the day of his escape but had received news that his release would be delayed until April due to an unresolved matter in Bucks County. Authorities believe this may have motivated Hagenkotter to flee custody.

Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore of the Philadelphia Police Department confirmed that Hagenkotter does not have a history of violence towards law enforcement. Nevertheless, residents are urged not to approach the escaped inmate but to report any sightings to the police tip-line at 215-686-TIPS.

This marks the third escape from the prison's campus on State Road in Northeast Philly. In previous incidents, Ameen Hurst and Nasir Grant, as well as convicted murderer Danelo Cavelcante, led authorities on extended manhunts. The latest escape has raised concerns about security measures at the facility.

Authorities are actively appealing for public cooperation and assistance in locating Hagenkotter. Efforts are underway to ensure the safe apprehension of the escaped inmate to prevent any potential risks to the community.

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