Manhunt Ends with All Eight Fugitives Captured
A massive search operation concluded successfully after eight inmates, including three facing murder charges, escaped from the Riverbend Detention Center in East Carroll Parish, Louisiana. The breakout occurred around 1:20 a.m. on Friday, prompting an immediate statewide alert from authorities.
The escapees, all classified as violent offenders, included Destin Brogan, 22; Trenton Taplin, 29; Kolin Loney, 21; Savion Wheeler, 31; Hugo Molina, 27; Kevin Slaughter Jr., 25; Krisean Salinas, 21; and Kopelon Vicknair, 19. Officials issued a strong warning to the public: “Do not approach under any circumstances. If you observe or have information regarding their whereabouts, contact law enforcement immediately.”
Details on the Escapees and Their Charges
Brogan awaited trial for second-degree murder in connection with a 2022 shooting, with his court date set for May 11. Taplin faced similar charges stemming from a 2020 incident. Molina also stood accused of second-degree murder. Loney dealt with multiple felonies, including second-degree murder, alongside prior convictions for burglary and property damage. Vicknair awaited proceedings related to a 2023 homicide, while Slaughter faced aggravated assault allegations. Salinas had a history of multiple arrests, and the reason for Wheeler’s detention remains unclear.
Investigators have not disclosed how the inmates managed the escape, but the incident triggered a coordinated response from numerous agencies. The Louisiana State Police Detectives-Monroe Field Office took the lead, with support from the Madison, East Carroll, and Ouachita parish sheriff’s offices, Alexandria Police Department, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Louisiana Probation and Parole, U.S. Marshals Service, and FBI.
Swift Captures and Official Response
Progress came quickly in the manhunt. By 9:55 p.m. on Friday, authorities apprehended Slaughter and Loney. Within hours, Salinas, Brogan, and Vicknair were located. By early Saturday morning, all eight fugitives were back in custody.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill actively monitored the situation and coordinated with local leaders. In a social media statement, she noted: “I have been in contact with East Carroll Parish Sheriff Wydette Williams and Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association President Kevin Cobb, and have offered the full assistance of my office, including the Fugitive Apprehension Unit.”
Under Louisiana law, inmates convicted of simple escape face additional years added to their sentences, compounding the charges these individuals already confront.
