Amherst County Authorities Search for Escaped Inmate Cruz Wright, Residents Advised to Stay Indoors
Authorities in Amherst County, Virginia, are actively searching for Cruz Wright, an inmate who escaped custody on Friday night. Wright was being transported to the Amherst County Adult Detention Center by a deputy from Appomattox County when he fled on foot. He was in custody for charges related to stealing a gun in Lynchburg. Wright, who has a long criminal history, was last seen near the jail and is considered dangerous. Initially, he was reported to be wearing a white shirt, jeans, and handcuffs, but later updates indicated he was seen in a black shirt, black shorts, and white shoes. Law enforcement has deployed drones and K-9 units to aid in the search. Residents within a five-mile radius of the jail have been advised to lock their doors and remain indoors, as per an emergency alert from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. Wright is described as 5-foot-8-inches tall, weighing 200 pounds, with tattoos on his face, neck, and head, and currently without facial hair.