TUCSON, AZ — Escaped inmate Elijah Palmer has been recaptured after being reported missing early Saturday morning from the Arizona State Prison Complex-Tucson, authorities confirmed.
Palmer, housed in the minimum-security Whetstone Unit, was found unaccounted for during a routine check at approximately 4:00 a.m., according to a statement from the Arizona Department of Corrections.
Prison officials immediately enacted escape protocols and notified local law enforcement agencies to aid in the search.
Swift Capture Following Multi-Agency Efforts
The Arizona Department of Corrections, in coordination with the Department of Public Safety and other law enforcement teams, launched an extensive search operation.
By 2:00 p.m., the Pima County Sheriff’s Department announced Palmer’s capture via social media.
Background on the Escaped Inmate
Palmer had been serving time for unlawful use of means of transportation, stemming from a conviction in Pima County. He began his sentence on August 6, 2024, with a projected release date of May 12, 2025.
Investigation Underway
Details about how Palmer escaped remain undisclosed as an investigation continues. Officials have not yet commented on whether additional security measures will be implemented following the incident.
Palmer’s brief escape highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining security at correctional facilities, even in minimum-security units.