Fugitive Convicted of Murder in Pennsylvania and Wanted in Brazil Eludes Capture Following Jailbreak

On Friday, a large-scale manhunt involving numerous law enforcement agencies continued for Danelo Cavalcante, a 34-year-old man recently convicted in Pennsylvania for the deadly stabbing of his former girlfriend. Cavalcante escaped from a county detention facility the previous day.

Cavalcante, originally from Brazil, is not only wanted for his conviction in the United States but also faces charges in Brazil related to another killing. Officials have categorized him as an individual of extreme danger to the public.

The ongoing manhunt stretched into its second day, employing a variety of resources such as drones, helicopters, and canine units. Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan, in a news conference on Friday, stated that the focus of the search was on railway lines, water routes, and potential exit points from the vicinity.

While officials speculate that Cavalcante may be attempting to move southward, they also clarified that there is currently no concrete evidence indicating that he has left the area or that he is being aided in his escape by third parties.

Local residents are urged to review footage from their home surveillance systems for any unusual activity and to inspect their vehicles, outbuildings, and sheds. The public is also advised to monitor the residences of neighbors who may be away and to be vigilant for any missing vehicles or bicycles that Cavalcante might use to facilitate his escape.

Robert Clark, who oversees the U.S. Marshals’ fugitive task force in Philadelphia, mentioned that the Brazilian consulate has been formally notified of Cavalcante’s escape.

The circumstances surrounding Cavalcante’s jailbreak on Thursday morning remain undisclosed, and the matter is under official investigation. Witnesses reported seeing him walking near the detention facility shortly after his escape.

Last month, a jury found Cavalcante guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao, in the presence of her children in 2021. He received a life sentence and was awaiting transfer to a state prison at the time of his escape. Prosecutors maintain that Cavalcante committed the murder to prevent Brandao from disclosing to authorities the charges he faces in Brazil, relating to a 2017 homicide.

Authorities captured Cavalcante in Virginia following the killing of Brandao, and believe he was attempting to return to Brazil. He initially entered the United States illegally, fleeing from Brazil to Puerto Rico after the 2017 killing for which he is sought.

Cavalcante is described as 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall, weighing 120 pounds (54 kilograms), with curly black hair and a neatly trimmed beard and mustache, as shown in a photo released by the county.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Manhunt for Danelo Cavalcante

More about Manhunt for Danelo Cavalcante

• Pennsylvania Murder Conviction Details
• Official Statement from Chester County District Attorney
• Guidelines on Public Safety During Manhunt
• U.S.-Brazil Extradition Treaty Information
• Background on Danelo Cavalcante’s Criminal History
• U.S. Marshals’ Fugitive Task Force Information
• Overview of Surveillance Technology Used in Manhunts
• Legal Framework Surrounding Jail Escapes in Pennsylvania