Pennsylvania Schools Closed as Manhunt for Convicted Killer Continues
Several schools in Pennsylvania are closed today as authorities intensify the search for a convicted killer who escaped from Chester County prison. Danelo Souza Cavalcante, 34, managed to evade capture since his breakout last Thursday.
Cavalcante, originally from Brazil, faces murder charges in both the United States and his home country. His escape has left authorities on high alert.
Spotted Multiple Times
Cavalcante has been seen four times since his prison escape. The most recent sighting occurred within a two-mile radius of a wooded area in Chester County, thanks to a vigilant state trooper. It’s worth noting that Cavalcante is in the U.S. illegally.
School Closures Due to Caution
In response to the ongoing manhunt, the Kennett Consolidated School District and the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District (UCF) decided to close their schools and offices. This decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” as the search for Cavalcante continues.
UCF explained, “The district has received information that the status of the situation with the escaped prisoner has changed. Schools and offices are closed today, and the district will operate on a Flexible Instructional Day.”
Life Sentence for a Grisly Crime
Cavalcante was sentenced to life in prison just last month for the gruesome murder of his ex-girlfriend, committed in front of her children. He managed to escape while awaiting transfer to state prison, leaving authorities puzzled about how he pulled it off.
Frequent Sightings
Since Cavalcante’s escape, there have been multiple credible sightings within a defined area in Pocopson Township. The search has extended to the intersection of Route 926 and 52 North on 52 to Parker’s Mill Road Southeast to 926, and west to the intersection of 926 and 52.
Caught on Camera
In one notable incident, a residential surveillance camera captured Cavalcante at around 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, approximately 1.5 miles from the prison. This development has heightened concerns about his whereabouts and potential danger to the community.
Mother’s Plea for Surrender
Law enforcement is trying unique tactics to bring Cavalcante to justice. They’ve employed a helicopter to broadcast a message recorded by Cavalcante’s mother in Portuguese, urging her son to surrender peacefully. The hope is that this emotional plea will facilitate a peaceful resolution to the manhunt.
Authorities remain committed to capturing Cavalcante and ensuring the safety of the community as they continue their efforts to locate and apprehend the escaped convict.
Fox News’ Greg Wehner contributed to this report.