Police are still on the hunt for an escaped prisoner deemed a "survivalist" after they found "campsites" in woods.
Michael Burham, an escaped inmate in Pennsylvania, remains at large as law enforcement approaches the 72-hour mark in their search. His firearms training and family connections in neighbouring states may be aiding his evasion, it has been claimed.
Authorities describe him as a "survivalist" and have discovered evidence of small stockpiles or campsites in wooded areas near Warren County, where the escape occurred. Residents in the area are being urged to lock their doors and "remain vigilant".
Pennsylvania State Police warn residents to consider Burham "extremely dangerous" and suspect he may still be in the area. There are concerns that he may be receiving assistance from others.
Burham escaped by climbing on exercise equipment to reach the roof of the jail and using a makeshift rope from bedsheets to lower himself to the ground.
While restrained inside the facility, he was not in the exercise yard at the time, Fox News reported. The search efforts, employing infrared technology, helicopters, and drones, have extended into the Allegheny National Forest.
Authorities conducted a search of a vacant property based on a tip about movement inside. Given Burham's past behaviour, law enforcement believes he may have acquired a firearm or other weapons.
Previously, Burham was the subject of a manhunt after being named a suspect in a murder in New York near the Pennsylvania border. He was eventually arrested in South Carolina and was being held on arson and burglary charges before his recent escape.
A combined reward of $9,500 is being offered for information leading to his capture. Pennsylvania State Police can be contacted at 815-728-3600 for any relevant information.
