HOUSTON – The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) campus was temporarily placed on lockdown as law enforcement officials conducted an extensive search for an escaped inmate, identified as 35-year-old Joshua Nigel Thomas Sanders. The lockdown was prompted by heavy police activity in the vicinity.
According to Jeff McShan from Harris County Constable Precinct 1, Sanders escaped from police custody at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center and fled into Buffalo Bayou. Sanders, described as dangerous, has a history of assault, burglary, and weapons and drug possession offenses. Additionally, he is suspected of involvement in a burglary at Fighter Nation Boxing Gym earlier this year.
The escape incident began when Sanders allegedly carjacked a female temp worker outside the courthouse with a knife, causing her to crash her vehicle. Following the failed carjacking attempt, Sanders took off on foot and leaped into the bayou.
During a press conference, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Sanders was wearing orange pants and a black shirt at the time of his escape. UHD issued an immediate alert, advising people to secure themselves indoors. Authorities have since established a perimeter in the area to facilitate the ongoing manhunt.
We will update the story as more information is available.
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