A manhunt is currently underway in Pennsylvania following the escape of a convicted murderer from Chester County Prison. Danelo Cavalcante, a 34-year-old Brazilian national, fled the prison on Thursday morning, just a week after he was sentenced to life without parole for the murder of his former girlfriend in April of 2021.
Cavalcante was last seen in the vicinity of Wawaset Road in Pocopson Township, around an hour’s drive from Philadelphia. Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan described Cavalcante as “an extremely dangerous man.” The details of his escape are under investigation and have not been disclosed by prison officials.
The search for Cavalcante is being conducted by detectives and hundreds of police officers, utilizing resources such as search helicopters and dogs. The Chester County District Attorney’s Office has assured the public that they are pursuing every lead in their efforts to apprehend Cavalcante.
In addition to his conviction in the United States, Cavalcante is also wanted in Brazil for another homicide. He is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish, and speaks some English. Cavalcante is described as being 5 feet tall, weighing 120 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt, gray shorts, and white sneakers.
Authorities have urged the public not to approach Cavalcante if they encounter him, but to call 911 immediately. A combined reward of $10,000 is being offered by the Marshals Service and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office for information leading to Cavalcante’s arrest.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement became aware of Cavalcante’s unlawful presence in the country following his arrest. The agency has issued a detainer, but it remains unclear how or when Cavalcante entered the U.S. ICE is also assisting in the search for Cavalcante.