Convicted Murderer Captured After Two-Week Manhunt
The convicted murderer who escaped a Pennsylvania prison late last month has been caught and is now facing additional charges. Danilo Cavalcante, 34, was captured in the woods of South Coventry Township on Wednesday morning, ending a nearly two-week manhunt that garnered national attention. Police apprehended Cavalcante, who was planning to leave the country, with the help of a police dog.
According to Robert Clark, supervisory deputy US marshal for Pennsylvania’s eastern district, Cavalcante intended to carjack someone and head north to Canada within the next 24 hours. The extensive law enforcement presence prompted Cavalcante to believe that he needed to flee.
Cavalcante, who was convicted of first-degree murder in August and sentenced to life in prison, escaped from Chester County Prison on August 31. During his 13 days on the run, he eluded authorities by hiding in wooded areas, moving at night, and surviving off stream water and a watermelon he found at a farm.
Despite hundreds of law enforcement officials searching for him in heavily wooded terrain, Cavalcante managed to slip through search perimeters multiple times. The challenging terrain and thick vegetation played in his favor, allowing him to evade authorities. However, his extended time in the woods took a toll on his appearance, leaving him stressed and fatigued when he was captured.
Cavalcante is now being held in a maximum-security prison in Montgomery County and will serve a life sentence for his murder conviction. In addition, he has been charged with felony escape and is due to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on September 27.
The capture of Cavalcante was a relief for the surrounding community, which had been on edge since his escape. Investments in prison security are now being planned to prevent similar incidents in the future. Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan expressed her relief, noting that the family of the victim, Deborah Brandão, could finally find solace now that Cavalcante is back in custody.
The manhunt for Cavalcante was a painstaking process for law enforcement officials, who had to navigate treacherous terrain and dense foliage. Despite the challenges, their persistence paid off, ensuring that a dangerous murderer was brought to justice.