After a two-week manhunt, police apprehended Brazilian fugitive Danilo Cavalcante in a rural Pennsylvania location.
The arrest involved multiple law enforcement groups, including the FBI and State Police.
A burglar alarm near the search area went off at midnight. Though it wasn’t Cavalcante, it led to an aerial search.
A heat signal showed up, marking the fugitive’s location. Bad weather forced the aircraft to leave, but ground units stayed alert.
By morning, police closed in. “He didn’t know he was surrounded,” said Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens.
Cavalcante tried to escape with a stolen rifle but a police dog stopped him. He was then arrested without further harm.
Cavalcante had killed his girlfriend in front of her kids. He escaped from prison on August 31.
While on the run, he stole clothes and a gun, making him highly dangerous. His capture prompted school closures and public alerts.
Finding him had been tough due to dense woods. He showed up on private cameras but stayed elusive.
A reward for information had reached $25,000. Cavalcante is also wanted in Brazil for another murder.
The victim’s family in the U.S. were told of his capture, giving them relief. The arrest ends weeks of tension for both police and locals.
It’s unclear if he’ll face more charges, but his capture shows that teamwork and tech can aid modern law enforcement.
Background
The case gained national attention due to its complex and lengthy nature. Law enforcement agencies used high-tech gear like thermal cameras.
This equipment made it possible to locate Cavalcante in the dense forest. The story also highlights the growing role of tech in police work.
Multiple departments collaborated, including state and federal agencies. This showcases the power of teamwork in catching dangerous individuals.
This isn’t the first high-profile escape in the U.S. In the past, fugitives like El Chapo also grabbed headlines.
Yet, the rapid capture of Cavalcante indicates improving tactics. This event raised questions about prison security too.
How did a convicted murderer manage such a quick escape? It may lead to tighter measures in penal institutions.