Manhunt Intensifies for Escaped Fugitive in Philadelphia Suburbs
The search for Danelo Cavalcante, an escaped fugitive from Chester County Prison, has escalated in the Philadelphia suburbs as authorities focus their attention on the area surrounding Longwood Gardens, a sprawling botanical garden. Cavalcante, who escaped on August 31, has been spotted twice at the gardens in recent days, increasing concerns about public safety.
The number of officers involved in the search has now reached nearly 400, with multiple helicopters circling the area. Roads in the vicinity of Longwood Gardens have been abruptly closed as part of the intensified search efforts. Cavalcante, who was convicted of stabbing his ex-girlfriend to death, was caught on a trail camera at the gardens on Wednesday night and seen there again on Thursday afternoon.
In another development, local officials announced on Friday that a corrections officer on duty during Cavalcante’s escape has been terminated from their position. The officer, who had an 18-year tenure at the jail, was stationed in a watchtower but failed to notice Cavalcante’s escape from the exercise yard. The officer had previously been placed on administrative leave but was officially fired on Thursday.
During a news conference held on Friday morning, Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police expressed optimism that Cavalcante would eventually be captured. However, he warned that the fugitive, who fled from Brazil after allegedly committing another murder there in 2017, was experienced in evading capture and enduring difficult conditions.
According to Brazilian authorities, Cavalcante shot and killed Valter Júnior Moreira dos Reis in a town square in 2017. The motive behind the crime was an unsettled debt related to vehicle repairs. Cavalcante worked on a cattle ranch and had a fearsome reputation in the town. Despite extensive efforts, authorities could not locate Cavalcante after the murder.
With Cavalcante now on the loose, the family of his previous victims is fearful for their safety. Dayane Moreira dos Reis, the sister of the man he killed in Brazil, expressed concern that Cavalcante may attempt to return to the country. In 2021, Cavalcante murdered his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandão, in the United States. Deborah’s sister, Silvia, noted that her family is worried for their own safety and that of Deborah’s children, who are currently under the care of their aunt in Pennsylvania.
As the manhunt continues, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information related to Cavalcante’s whereabouts.