11 Inmates Break Out of New Orleans Jail Through Toilet Wall, Manhunt Now Underway [Video]

Eleven inmates escaped from the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans, prompting a massive manhunt on Friday.

Video

The breakout was discovered during a routine head count around 8:30 a.m., according to Sheriff Susan Hutson, who called it a “very serious and unacceptable situation.”

Photos from the sheriff’s office show a large hole behind a toilet in a cell, with graffiti above it reading, “We Innocent” and “Too Easy LOL.”

Chief Christopher Goodly of Field Operations warned the escapees “should be considered armed and dangerous.” Jail records show at least four are charged with murder or attempted murder, while others face charges including armed robbery, battery, and drug offenses.

One escapee, Kendall Myles, has been captured. Authorities say he was found hiding beneath a car in the Hotel Monteleone parking garage after a brief chase through the French Quarter.

Troop NOLA Troopers located escapee Kendall Myles in the French Quarter this morning. After a brief foot pursuit, he was apprehended on Royal Street. Troopers continue working with partners to locate the remaining escapees and ensure public safety. #troopnola pic.twitter.com/ef5FM55YRS

— LA State Police (@LAStatePolice) May 16, 2025

Myles, 20, had previously escaped from the Bridge City Center in 2022. He was later indicted for attempted murder and carjacking after allegedly shooting a 59-year-old man twice and stealing his vehicle.

“Thank you to Troop NOLA for their diligence and speed in apprehending the first escapee,” Governor Jeff Landry posted on Twitter. “To the other 10: YOU ARE NEXT!”

Attorney General Liz Murrill added, “Someone clearly dropped the ball… I am calling for a full investigation — This is beyond unacceptable.”

Someone clearly dropped the ball and there’s no excuse for this. I’m in communication with Troop NOLA and @LAStatePolice Superintendent Colonel Hodges. It’s all hands on deck. The first priority in any escape must be the immediate capture of the inmates and coordination with… pic.twitter.com/APXD9Gj7UE

— Attorney General Liz Murrill (@AGLizMurrill) May 16, 2025

Sheriff Hutson urged the public: “Remain alert…do not engage or approach the inmates.”

The sheriff’s office is working with local, state, and federal agencies to locate the remaining escapees.