Pennsylvania schools close again in hunt for escaped convicted murderer as police say he’s armed

A Southeastern Pennsylvania school district said Tuesday that it will be closed as police search for escaped convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante, whom officials say is now armed

The search already resulted in two school districts temporarily closing down last week, and the latest closure comes from the Owen J. Roberts School District in Pottstown.

"As a result of increased police activity in our community related to the pursuit of an escaped inmate from Chester County Prison, and after consultation with state and local law enforcement, we have made the decision to close all schools and offices in our district today," Owen J. Roberts Superintendent Will Stout said.

The Pennsylvania State Police sent out an emergency alert Tuesday stating that officials are searching for Cavalcante "who is armed with a weapon in the South Coventry Township area." Residents are urged to secure their homes, avoid traveling and review any surveillance cameras they may have.

Cavalcante, 34, escaped from the Chester County Prison nearly two weeks ago after he was convicted of killing his former girlfriend, Deborah Brandao, by stabbing her 38 times in front of her two young children.

When Brandao was murdered, Cavalcante also had a warrant for his arrest in Brazil, his native country, for another alleged murder in 2017.

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