Overview
A prison work program led to a hostage situation and escape involving an unstable inmate, resulting in a police pursuit, intervention from local citizens and emergency personnel, and a tense resolution. The traumatic incident had lasting emotional impacts on those involved.
Prison Work Program and Incident Background
- Inmates with privileges participated in supervised outside work to prepare for release.
- Michael Audie, a correctional officer, routinely supervised these work details without a weapon per policy.
- Audie felt safe with the inmates until the day of the incident.
Hostage Situation and Escape
- During a routine work trip on May 30, 1982, an inmate serving a 23-year sentence took Audie hostage.
- The inmate had a reputation for instability and acted impulsively.
- Audie was tied up by other inmates, who intentionally made the restraints loose to facilitate his escape.
- Audie and the remaining inmates alerted the prison after freeing themselves.
Community and Emergency Response
- The escapee crashed the van near the home of seniors Mae and Leo LaMott.
- Mae called for help, and EMT Gary Orville arrived quickly to assist.
- The escapee took Mae and Gary hostage briefly before fleeing in their truck.
- Police were alerted, and a pursuit began after the vehicle was identified by Officer Mike Brooks.
Police Pursuit and Resolution
- Multiple police units coordinated to pursue and intercept the suspect.
- The suspect was seen holding a knife to the driver's throat during the chase.
- Officers set up a roadblock, boxed in the vehicle, and apprehended both men without any shots fired.
- Both individuals were detained until identities were confirmed.
Aftermath and Long-Term Effects
- The perpetrator was charged with assault and kidnapping and later committed suicide in a higher-security prison.
- Michael Audie experienced ongoing trauma and eventually left his job as a prison guard.
- Gary Orville maintained contact with Mae LaMott, who credited him with saving her life.
- Those involved reflected on the unpredictability and impact of the events.
Decisions
- Transferred suspect to higher-security prison following charges of assault and kidnapping.
Action Items
- TBD – Michael Audie: Continue to address lingering trauma from the incident.
- TBD – Law Enforcement: Review and assess work program safety and emergency protocols.