Lihue, Hawaii (corn) — Hawaii authorities say they are searching for a hit-and-run suspect after a man who allegedly escaped from a nearby prison was found seriously injured on the road.
Kauai Police Department announced. The inmate, identified as Matthew Ornelas Jr., 33, was able to escape from the Kauai Community Correctional Center around 1 a.m. Friday.
Within about 10 minutes, correctional officers found Ornelas injured about 100 meters northeast of the facility on Kuhio Highway.
Witnesses reported that a vehicle traveling southbound appeared to hit Ornelas and then drive away. The vehicle, described as black in color, was seen traveling towards Lihue and was last seen making a U-turn towards Kapaa.
Ornelas was taken by ambulance to Wilcox Medical Center, where he remained in critical condition Friday.
Kauai police said an investigation was initiated on suspicion of fleeing and a report was filed on suspicion of hit and run.
Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Henshaw at (808) 241-1616. If you wish to remain anonymous, please call (808) 246-8300 or submit the following information: Crimestoppers Kauai website.
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