Calif. Inmate Steals Fire Engine to Make Escape

    Jan. 3, 2012
    SAN DIEGO -- An official says an inmate escaped from a state prison in San Diego County by stealing the prison fire engine on New Year's Day. Authorities are seeking 51-year-old Thomas Kelley, a convicted car thief who was jailed at Donovan state prison in November for a parole violation. Prison spokesman Lt. Patrick Logan says Kelley worked as a firefighter at the prison near the Mexican border. He was discovered missing Sunday night from the minimum security section.

    SAN DIEGO --

    An official says an inmate escaped from a state prison in San Diego County by stealing the prison fire engine on New Year's Day.

    Authorities are seeking 51-year-old Thomas Kelley, a convicted car thief who was jailed at Donovan state prison in November for a parole violation.

    Prison spokesman Lt. Patrick Logan says Kelley worked as a firefighter at the prison near the Mexican border. He was discovered missing Sunday night from the minimum security section.

    Logan says at about the same time, sheriff's deputies saw a fire engine being driven erratically about 10 miles from the prison. Prison officials say the driver fled when the truck was stopped.

    ___

    Information from: The San Diego Union-Tribune, http://www.signonsandiego.com

    undefined
    Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

    Voice Your Opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!