Title: Fugitive Accused of Attempted Murder Makes a Daring Escape from Oregon Mental Hospital
In a shocking turn of events, a dangerous felon accused of attempted murder has managed to escape from an Oregon mental hospital in a daring car chase. Christopher Lee Pray, a 39-year-old inmate, took control of a staffer’s car while still in shackles and made a swift getaway on Wednesday night.
Pray was en route to the Oregon State Hospital in Salem when he seized the opportunity to flee. Despite being pursued by state troopers on a high-speed chase along Interstate 5, the officers eventually had to back off due to safety concerns. Pray is now considered extremely dangerous, and authorities have fervently urged the public not to approach him but instead dial 911 immediately if spotted.
The fugitive, who already has a long history of felony convictions, faces charges of first-degree robbery, attempted aggravated murder, assault, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. These charges are connected to a harrowing armed robbery and shooting incident in Multnomah County, where Pray is accused of nearly taking the life of a woman.
It remains a mystery as to how Pray managed to take control of the vehicle while wearing handcuffs and shackles on his legs, in addition to a belly chain. During the escape, one of the hospital employees suffered an injury.
Prior to his escape, Pray had been involved in an altercation with another patient at the state hospital, resulting in the need for medical attention. After being transferred to a local emergency room, Pray was on his way back to the hospital when he overpowered the hospital worker and commandeered a white minivan.
Currently, Pray remains at large, driving the stolen state vehicle—a white 2016 Dodge Caravan with Oregon license plate E265614. Authorities suspect he may be heading towards the greater Portland area. Pray was last seen wearing a white shirt, sweatpants, and rubber slippers.
This escape comes after Pray had been incarcerated at the Multnomah County jail before being transferred to the state hospital earlier the same day. Although the circumstances of his escape raise concerns about the security measures at the hospital, law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to locate and apprehend the fugitive.
As the search for Christopher Lee Pray intensifies, residents in the surrounding areas are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information to the authorities. The community’s cooperation will be crucial in ensuring the swift and safe capture of this dangerous felon.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on the original news report and should not be considered as official legal or medical advice.