Hunt for handcuffed man who escaped from police, Forest Acres officials say
A search is underway for a wanted man who escaped from law enforcement Tuesday, the Forest Acres Police Department said.
Aaron Christopher Murphy, 35, is on the run, police said in a news release.
Murphy was in custody for questioning about a previous commercial burglary when he ran while handcuffed, according to the release.
Police said they believe Murphy jumped into the creek behind the Cooper Library to make the escape. That’s near Trenholm Road’s intersection with Forest Drive.
“Look, we know who he is, where he lives and who is acquaintances are. He also already confessed to the commercial burglary. Running at this point is pretty dumb and desperate and won’t end in freedom for him. He’s just making it worse for himself,” Police Chief Don Robinson said in the release.
As of Tuesday evening, police said they believed Murphy was in the area near Daniel Drive, Gamewell Drive and Trenholm Road. In addition to officers, the search also included police dogs and a drone, according to the release.
Since the search began, police said they have followed up on dozens of tips and possible sightings.
His last known address is off of King Street in Columbia, according to police.
“We continue to be out in force (Wednesday) morning searching for Murphy in the Eight Mile Creek area that extends from Trenholm Road, to Gamewell Drive to Willingham Drive and beyond,” Robinson said. “While searching Forest Acres, we are also tracking his known connections in the Columbia area as it’s possible the suspect fled our jurisdiction. We have assistance from the Columbia Police Department and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
Police asked anyone who lives in the area to “please take caution.”
Despite being wanted, Robinson said Murphy is not considered a violent criminal.
“He’s being charged with stealing car batteries from an auto business,” Robinson said. “These are quick grabs for quick money and while concerning, they are not violent in nature. That being said, everyone should remain vigilant and call any tips into police immediately.”
Police described Murphy as 5-foot-9, 160-pound man who was last seen wearing dark pants, a white shirt and a black jacket.
Anyone who sees Murphy is told not to engage him, but instead call 911.
Anyone with information about Murphy, or his whereabouts, is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit an online tip.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published November 15, 2023 at 7:24 AM.
