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Broome prison escape: Incredible video emerges of fugitive on the run

Troy de Ruyter & Sam JonesThe West Australian
VideoWarrick Simon Walkerbear escapes from Broome Regional Prison

Video has emerged of the moment an escapee made his getaway from a WA regional prison.

The incredible footage shows Warrick Simon Walkerbear running along a road in Broome in his prison greens after the daring escape.

He can be seen barefoot in the footage, running past several vehicles before looking over his shoulder.

Police on Wednesday stepped up the hunt for the 27-year-old after the fugitive scaled a Broome Regional Prison fence and made his escape about 3.30pm on Tuesday.

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Police believe Mr Walkerbear, who is being detained on burglary and motor vehicle theft charges, may attempt to flee to Derby where he has family connections.

Police search the Broome mangroves for the escapee.
Camera IconPolice search the Broome mangroves for the escapee. Credit: Sam Jones/Broome Advertiser

A roadblock has been set up on the only road in and out of Broome.

Broome detective John Harty said police were scouring the town and checking cars throughout the area in their hunt for Mr Walkerbear.

“We believe Mr Walkerbear may head back to Derby, that’s where he’s from originally,” he said.

“So we have a road block out on the Old Broome Road and we’re pulling over cars that come along the road, just checking to make sure he’s not in there.

“We will continue to search for him until he's found. We will not stop. We will find him.”

The hunt for Warrick Walkerbear.
Camera IconThe hunt for Warrick Walkerbear. Credit: Sam Jones/Broome Advertiser

Mr Walkerbear was last seen on Hamersley Street in the vicinity of Barker Street, heading south towards Haas Street in Broome.

Police were on Tuesday night searching through mangroves in front of the Mangrove Hotel in Roebuck Bay for the fugitive.

Mr Walkerbear is described as 185cm tall with a slim build, curly black shoulder length hair.

He was wearing dark green shorts, a dark green t-shirt and black thongs.

“As with any escapee, Mr Walkerbear may act in an unpredictable manner if approached,” police said.

“Any member of the public who sights him is advised to call police immediately on 131 444 or the Broome police station on 9103 9000.”

Warrick Simon Walkerbear escaped from Broome Regional prison.
Camera IconWarrick Simon Walkerbear escaped from Broome Regional prison.

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