Man convicted of murder escapes police custody in California and manhunt begins

() – A man convicted of murder escaped from police custody Monday and a search is underway, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Cesar M. Hernandez, 34, escaped from a van shortly after being transported to a court appearance at the Kern County Superior Courthouse in Delano around 10:45 a.m. local time, the corrections department said in a statement. a release.

“Upon arrival, Hernandez evaded staff custody, jumped out of the van, and is currently at large,” the department said.

Hernandez is serving a sentence of 25 years to life in prison for first-degree murder with the possibility of parole, the department said.

The Delano Police Department and other law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search for Hernandez. Community members were urged to “report any suspicious activity or sightings immediately,” according to police.

He is 1.65 meters tall and weighs approximately 73 kilos, has black hair and brown eyes, according to the department of corrections. He was last seen wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and white thermal clothing, Delano Police reported.