Homicide Suspect at Large After Daring Escape from Custody Triggers Intense Manhunt
A major manhunt is underway after a homicide suspect managed to break free from police custody while receiving medical treatment at George Washington University Hospital. Christopher Haynes, 30, had been taken to the hospital by Washington authorities after complaining about an ankle injury. Authorities revealed that as they attempted to secure him on a gurney, he assaulted an official and made his daring escape.
Haynes is considered extremely dangerous, having been charged in connection with a homicide case that occurred on August 12. According to reports, he allegedly gunned down two individuals, resulting in the death of one of them. Officials are urging the public not to approach Haynes if they spot him.
DC and Arlington police hunt for escaped murder suspect; traffic on Key Bridge affectedhttps://t.co/kTdba21GbG
— Arlington Now (@ARLnowDOTcom) September 7, 2023
This is not the first brush with the law for Haynes. In 2020, he faced criminal allegations after attempting to ride a bicycle into multiple police officers in Prince William County. Then, in August 2023, he allegedly shot two people on the 1500 block of Kenilworth Avenue in Washington, DC. While one victim was critically injured, the other tragically lost his life.
Following the August shooting, Haynes was arrested on September 6, 2023. He was charged with the non-fatal shooting of the surviving victim and the homicide of 33-year-old Brent Hayward from Virginia. While being processed, Haynes mentioned an ankle injury, which resulted in his trip to the local hospital.
UPDATE: MPD seeks the public’s assistance in locating Christopher Patrick Haynes who is charged with a homicide and wanted for an escape offense. A video and additional information of a $25,000 reward for his capture is located on our website.
Release: https://t.co/HALSq3qEnV https://t.co/8PXJNGDkM4 pic.twitter.com/c6nPDZDfmu
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) September 8, 2023
Authorities removed one handcuff in order to attach it to the gurney, but Haynes put up a struggle with officers and managed to flee the room. A swift response was initiated, and within 20 minutes, the hospital was put on lockdown as officials searched for the escaped suspect. Regrettably, at around 8:30 p.m., it was determined that Haynes had successfully made his way out of the building.
On Thursday, September 7, law enforcement agencies held a press conference to announce the launch of a widespread manhunt for Haynes. Joining forces to capture the fugitive are the DC police, the US Marshal Service, and the FBI. Authorities have also offered rewards of $25,000 and $10,000 for anyone providing information leading to his arrest.
BREAKING: just learned that Christopher Haynes, the man who escaped GW hospital yesterday, was picked up on a DC homicide warrant in Northern va. Yesterday. Chief says he escaped during a change of handcuffs and that 2 officers were present when he escaped. 1 officer assaulted. pic.twitter.com/AY3tq1H90d
— David Kaplan (@DKaplanFox5DC) September 7, 2023
Haynes is described as a black man with shoulder-length dreads. He was last seen leaving the hospital in a white jumpsuit and one red shoe. However, officials warn that he may have discarded the prison uniform and could be wearing a black t-shirt and gray shorts underneath.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information to the authorities immediately. The successful capture of Haynes is of utmost importance to ensure the safety of the community and bring justice to both the victims and their families.
