Weekslong Pennsylvania manhunt ends for fugitive killer | Nightline - Summary

Summary

In Chester County, Pennsylvania, convicted murderer Danilo Cavalcante, who had escaped from prison, was captured after a two-week manhunt involving law enforcement agencies from across the country. He was found hiding in a pile of logs near a John Deere store. The search became increasingly dangerous as he acquired a rifle and attempted to evade capture. Cavalcante was ultimately subdued by a police dog and taken into custody. He had been convicted of first-degree murder for a 2021 homicide and was also wanted in Brazil for a 2017 homicide charge. The successful capture ended a period of anxiety for the community, and Cavalcante now faces charges for his escape.

Facts

1. **Capture of Convicted Murderer:**
- Convicted murderer Danilo Cavalcante captured 30 miles from the prison after a two-week manhunt.
- The escape took place in Chester County, Pennsylvania.

2. **Law Enforcement Efforts:**
- The manhunt involved 500 law enforcement officers, police tactical teams, and a K-9 unit.
- The search covered a large, densely wooded area in Chester County.

3. **Escape Details:**
- Cavalcante escaped from Chester County prison by climbing a wall with razor wire, running across the roof.
- His daring escape involved a crab walk, and he managed to go unnoticed for an hour.

4. **Nationwide Impact:**
- The search involved law enforcement agencies nationwide, putting the Pennsylvania community on edge.

5. **Criminal Background:**
- Danilo Cavalcante, 34, convicted of first-degree murder in 2021 for stabbing his ex-girlfriend dozens of times.
- Also wanted in Brazil for a 2017 homicide charge.

6. **Escape Route and Vehicle Theft:**
- Cavalcante stole a white Ford van, giving him the ability to move and prolonging the search.
- He attempted to contact former co-workers in the Phoenixville Area, using a stolen van.

7. **Armed and Dangerous:**
- Cavalcante acquired a 22 caliber rifle with a scope and flashlight, posing a threat to the community.
- Stole the rifle from a home near East Nantmeal Township.

8. **Encounter with Homeowner:**
- Homeowner encountered Cavalcante, fired multiple shots, but he escaped unscathed.
- Cavalcante's sweatshirt and t-shirt found near the driveway.

9. **Final Capture:**
- DEA aircraft detected a heat signature, and a joint force captured Cavalcante.
- Cavalcante sustained a dog bite during the capture; no other injuries reported.

10. **Law Enforcement Success:**
- Law enforcement considered the operation a success, ensuring community safety.
- Community support for law enforcement remained strong throughout the ordeal.

11. **Legal Consequences:**
- Cavalcante is expected to be charged with felony escape and transferred to a maximum-security state prison.

12. **Community Relief:**
- The community anticipates returning to a sense of security, free from the worry of the escaped convict.

Please note that the text has some repetitive information; therefore, certain points may be reiterated for clarity.