Police in New Brunswick have ended an emergency alert but their search continues for an inmate who escaped a Shediac jail almost 48 hours ago.
RCMP said Todd John Lewis, 35, escaped from the Southeast Regional Correctional Centre on Thursday shortly before 5:30 p.m. Police said he jumped the fence and was last seen running toward Route 15.
Officers were not made aware of the situation until 12:30 a.m. Friday.
Due to the length of time the inmate was missing, police issued an emergency alert around 12:20 p.m. Friday. After more than 24 hours, police ended the alert Saturday.
“Although the alert for the escapee has ended, police are still actively searching for Todd John Lewis. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings to police,” said police in a news release Saturday.
According to RCMP, Lewis had previously been charged with weapon related offences.
He is described by police as being around five-foot-seven weighing about 146 pounds with blonde hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing blue pants, a brown coat, and a black bonnet.
“Members of the public may continue to observe an increased police presence as police continue their search and follow-up on tips,” said police.
RCMP said if someone sees Lewis, they should not approach him and instead call 911 immediately. On Friday, police said he could be in the Greater Moncton area.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact RCMP at 1-888-506-7267 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
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