Manhunt Underway for Escaped Convicted Murderer in California

Cesar Hernandez, sentenced to life for first-degree murder, escaped custody in Delano, prompting school closures and event cancellations.

Cesar Hernandez, a 34-year-old convicted murderer, escaped from a transport van in Delano, California, on Monday morning while en route to a court appearance.
Hernandez was serving a sentence of 80 years to life for a 2019 first-degree murder conviction and had recently pleaded no contest to additional charges related to prison contraband.
The escape has led to an intense manhunt involving local police, state corrections officials, K-9 units, and aerial surveillance, with residents urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings.
Local schools have been closed for several days, and holiday events, including a tree-lighting ceremony and Christmas parade, have been postponed due to safety concerns.
Hernandez, described as dangerous, was last seen wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and white thermals; authorities have received numerous tips but have yet to locate him.