Convicted Murderer Escapes Custody During Medical Transport, $25K Reward Offered for Capture

In a startling turn of events, a convicted killer's escape during a medical transport has ignited a massive law enforcement manhunt. The notorious felon, Ramone Jamarr Alston, 30, fled custody while being transported from Bertie Correctional Institution in North Carolina to UNC Gastroenterology in Hillsborough for medical treatment. His escape, which occurred under the watch of the North Carolina Department of Corrections officers, has sent shockwaves throughout the region, prompting a swift and comprehensive response from law enforcement.

Details of the Escape

On a routine morning, Ramone Jamarr Alston managed to elude his captors during a medical transport. Despite being securely restrained, Alston found a way to free himself from leg restraints while en route to the hospital. The exact method of his escape remains shrouded in mystery, with law enforcement officials expressing disbelief at how he managed to remove the restraints. The escape took place at approximately 7 a.m., when Alston seized the opportunity to bolt from the vehicle and make a beeline for a nearby wooded area.

The Manhunt

In response to the escape, a full-scale manhunt has been launched to apprehend the escaped convict. The Orange County Sheriff's Office has mobilized resources and personnel to scour the vicinity in a bid to locate Alston. The urgency of the situation has been underscored by law enforcement officials, with Sheriff Blackwood emphasizing the dual nature of the search – Alston could either be within a five-mile radius or have covered significant ground beyond that.

Public Safety and Community Alert

Given the potentially dangerous nature of the escaped convict, law enforcement is urging the public to remain vigilant. Sheriff Blackwood has urged residents to secure their homes, lock windows and doors, and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately. The importance of community awareness and cooperation has been stressed as crucial in the ongoing efforts to recapture Alston and ensure public safety.

The Reward for Capturing Alston

To expedite the capture of Ramone Jamarr Alston, law enforcement has announced a substantial reward for information leading to his recapture. A reward of $25,000 has been offered to any individual providing credible leads that would aid in locating and apprehending the fugitive. This incentive underscores the seriousness of the situation and the determination of law enforcement to bring the escaped convict back into custody.

Alston's Criminal Background

Ramone Jamarr Alston was serving a life sentence at Bertie Correctional Institution in Windsor, North Carolina, for his involvement in the murder of 1-year-old Maleah Williams on Christmas Day 2015. His conviction for first-degree murder marks him as a dangerous individual, heightening the urgency of his recapture. With a history of violent crime, the need to apprehend Alston swiftly cannot be overstated, both for the safety of the community and the integrity of the justice system.

Law Enforcement's Perspective

Law enforcement officials have provided insights into the circumstances surrounding Alston's escape. According to Sheriff Blackwood, two armed corrections officers were tasked with guarding Alston during the medical transport. Despite the presence of these officers, Alston managed to break free, sparking questions about the security protocols in place during inmate transfers. Sheriff Blackwood's comments shed light on the challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring the secure transportation of convicted felons, especially during medical appointments.