Two Inmates Escape Jail in Southwestern Mississippi, Prompting Manhunt
ICARO Media Group
Law enforcement officials are on the lookout for two inmates who managed to escape from the Claiborne County Detention Center in southwestern Mississippi on Friday. The escaped prisoners, Tyrekennel Collins, 24, and Dezarrious Johnson, 18, were awaiting trial for murder charges in separate counties.
According to the Claiborne County Sheriff's Department, Collins and Johnson broke out of the jail around 2:20 a.m. by maneuvering through the ceiling and making their escape through an outside wall. Surveillance camera footage captured the daring escape, which left Johnson with a leg injury, causing him to walk with a limp.
Authorities have labeled both escapees as armed and dangerous, raising concerns for public safety. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has joined the search efforts to locate and apprehend the fugitives.
WJTV-TV reported that Collins is facing murder charges in the killing of his cousin in Copiah County. However, court records have not indicated an indictment as of Friday. The incident occurred in October and the county is approximately 40 miles west of Claiborne County, where the jail is located.
On the other hand, Johnson is charged with murder and aggravated assault in Jefferson County, which is located just south of Claiborne County. Court records indicate that he was indicted for the killing of one person and injuries to two others in October 2022. His trial is scheduled to begin on October 15.
Law enforcement agencies across the region are intensifying their efforts to locate Collins and Johnson, urging anyone with information regarding their whereabouts to come forward. The authorities are emphasizing the potential danger posed by the escapees and are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the public.
As the manhunt continues, residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the local authorities immediately.