Pennsylvania prison guard on duty when convicted murderer escaped is fired

A prison guard who was on duty when a convicted murderer escaped from a Pennsylvania prison more than a week ago has been fired, officials said Friday.

The prison guard, who was not identified, was an 18-year veteran and was fired Thursday, a Chester County spokesperson confirmed to NBC News.

Danelo Cavalcante, 34, escaped from the Chester County Prison in Pocopson Township on Aug. 31. About 400 law enforcement personnel are assisting in the search for him, authorities said on Friday.

According to surveillance video, Cavalcante stretched himself across the brick and cinderblock walls in the exercise yard to push himself to the roof.

In May, Another inmate, Igor Bolte, had briefly escaped in a similar way. Bolte was captured about five minutes later in a residential neighborhood less than a mile from the prison. 

Police said Thursday they suspect Cavalcante is within the perimeter of Routes 926 and 52, Hillendale Road and Creek Road. He’s been spotted eight times.

A reward of up to $20,000 is being offered for information that leads to his apprehension.

Cavalcante was convicted Aug. 16 of first-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of his ex-girlfriend. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates.