Authorities are actively searching for a violent inmate from Houston who recently escaped and may be carrying a weapon.
Joshua Nigel Thomas Sanders, aged 35, managed to flee from custody on Thursday after a court appearance, according to the sheriff's office. He had been imprisoned for allegedly committing burglary and being in possession of a gun as a felon.
Philip Bosquez, the Assistant Chief of Detentions Command, provided details during a news conference. Sanders made his escape after his court appearance, apparently managing to arrange it. He approached a woman during his getaway, as he stepped out onto the street.
According to Bosquez, Sanders jumped into the car of a court staff member who was just leaving work. The escape resulted in a car crash on Commerce Street near the Harris County Criminal Justice Center.
After the vehicle was disabled due to the collision, Sanders got out and ran away. That was the last time he was spotted on camera.
Although the woman was shaken up, she did not suffer any injuries, Bosquez informed.
There's no certainty about when or where Sanders acquired a knife, but it is believed that he had one at some point following his escape.
If you come across Sanders, you are urged to contact 911. He's approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs around 140 pounds.
A marine unit is searching a nearby bayou for any signs of Sanders, Bosquez added.
CNN has contacted authorities for further updates.
Read also:
The authorities are urging the public to contact 911 if they encounter Sanders, as he is considered dangerous due to his violent nature and potential weapon possession. The US Marshals Service and local law enforcement agencies are joined in the manhunt to apprehend the fugitive from Houston.
