Brazilian Fugitive Wanted in the U.S. Shot at by Homeowner While Stealing Rifle; Reward Increased to $25,000
Desperate Escape of Convicted Killer Triggers Intensive Manhunt
A convicted killer who escaped from a Pennsylvania prison two weeks ago stole a rifle from a homeowner’s garage, who then opened fire on him as he fled, authorities said on Tuesday, while police combed the nearby woods and hills for the fugitive.
Massive Mobilization of Law Enforcement in Search for Danelo Cavalcante
Hundreds of state and local police, along with federal agents, have joined in a manhunt for Danelo Cavalcante that began on August 31 when the 34-year-old Brazilian escaped from the Chester County prison, approximately 50 kilometers west of Philadelphia.
Rifle Theft and Tense Shootout in the Capture Attempt
During the night, Cavalcante entered a garage in Chester County, where he grabbed a .22 caliber rifle before fleeing while the homeowner fired multiple shots at him with a pistol, said Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police during a press conference on Tuesday.
Danelo Cavalcante, um assassino condenado fugitivo, agora está barbeado e dirige um Ford Transit branco roubado. (Polícia do Estado da Pensilvânia)
Dangerous and Desperate Fugitive Worries Local Authorities
“We consider him desperate. We consider him dangerous,” Bivens said. “He’s desperate enough to use that weapon.”
Cavalcante Keeps Authorities on High Alert
Authorities established a 16-square-kilometer perimeter around the house in a wooded and hilly area where they believe Cavalcante still remains, Bivens said, noting that area schools were closed for the day as a precaution.
Community Safety Appeals as the Search Continues
State police urged residents to stay at home and lock doors and windows.
Change of Disguise and Family Connections
Cavalcante removed the hoodie he was seen wearing on security cameras and was now shirtless, Bivens said.
Criminal History and International Manhunt
Cavalcante was waiting to be transferred to a state correctional institution to begin serving a life sentence after he was convicted in August for the brutal killing of a former girlfriend. There have been multiple sightings of Cavalcante who has stolen a vehicle and has attempted to contact several people for help. He later ditched the van and contacted his sister, who did not help him. She was taken into custody for an immigration violation, police said. Cavalcante is also a suspect in a 2017 murder in Brazil, according to the U.S. Marshals Service. Authorities have offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
