Cops launch frantic manhunt for violent offenders— including 3 murder suspects— who escaped Louisiana jail

A manhunt has been launched after eight inmates — three of whom are facing murder charges — escaped Friday morning from a northeast Louisiana jail.

Louisiana State Police confirmed the men, all considered “violent offenders,” were reported missing from the Riverbend Detention Center at 1:20 a.m. 

Five inmates remain unaccounted for: Destin Brogan, 22, Kelin Looney, 21, Krisean Salinas, 21, Kevin Slaughter, 25, and Koplelon Vicknair, 19.

The three inmates who were captured after the escape were identified as Hugo Molino, 27; Trenton Taplin, 29; and Savon Wheeler, 31.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said she has been in contact with East Carroll Parish Sheriff Wydette Williams and Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association President Kevin Cobb.

“[I] have offered the full assistance of my office, including the Fugitive Apprehension Unit,” Murrill wrote in a statement on X.

A manhunt has been launched after eight inmates — three of whom are facing murder charges — escaped from Riverbend Detention Center. Louisiana State Police

“I am actively monitoring the situation.”

The East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Office requested the Louisiana State Police Detectives–Monroe Field Office assume the lead role in finding and apprehending the fugitives. 

The sheriff’s office, which previously had most of its deputies searching for the inmates, will serve as the lead agency in the investigation.

Three of the eight escaped prisoners have been captured so far, as Hugo Molino, 27, Trenton Taplin, 29, and Savon Wheeler, 31, were brought back behind bars, while the five other inmates remain on the loose. Louisiana State Police

“Do not approach under any circumstances,” state police wrote in a statement.

“If you observe or have information regarding their whereabouts, contact law enforcement immediately.”

It is unclear how the men escaped, and no additional details have been released by authorities.

Local outlet WAFB 9 News reported Taplin was charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder, and Brogan and Looney were both facing charges of second-degree murder.

Vicknair was reportedly awaiting sentencing on charges related to a 2023 homicide, according to KQKI News.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.