Prisoner Escapes Rikers Island, Facility On Lockdown

On Wednesday night, someone made a break for it.

People walk by a sign at the entrance to Rikers Island
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People walk by a sign at the entrance to Rikers Island on March 31, 2017 in New York City. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio has said that he agrees with the fundamentals of a plan to close the jail complex on Rikers Island within 10 years. A newly released report from an independent commission, led by Judge Jonathan Lippman and created by the City Council last year, has recommended the closer of the troubled facility.

People walk by a sign at the entrance to Rikers Island

A prisoner has escaped from New York City's main jail complex, Rikers Island, according to law enforcement sources. As a result, the facility is under lockdown.

According to information obtained by PIX11 news, the prisoner escaped from the Anna K. Moss Center by jumping over a fence around 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday—the exact time is not known. 

The Q100-Ltd busses are currently not running on or off of Rikers Island due to the escaped prisoner, who is reported to have dreadlocks and to be 24 years old. It is believed he has not yet left the island.

Department of Correction spokesman Peter Thorne issued a statement:

"This evening, on Rikers Island, it appears an inmate did not return from outdoor recreation. A thorough investigation is underway, which includes an active search for this individual in coordination with NYPD. Rikers Island facilities have been placed on lockdown and we are talking to anyone who may be involved."

This is a developing story.

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