Couple investigates barking dog, stumbles upon escaped individual, successfully recaptures them.
Escapee Homicide Suspect Captured After Dog’s Bark Leads Couple to Him
A thrilling turn of events unfolded in Youngsville, Pennsylvania, when a couple investigating their barking dog stumbled upon a fugitive homicide suspect who had ingeniously escaped from jail using bed sheets. Michael Burham, 34, had been on the run for nine days after his daring escape from Warren County jail on July 6. However, thanks to the vigilance of the couple and the swift action of law enforcement, Burham’s freedom was short-lived.
A Suspicious Encounter
Residents of Conewango Township alerted authorities about a suspicious individual just before 4 p.m. on Saturday. Within two hours, Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, the deputy commissioner of Operations for the Pennsylvania State Police, confirmed that Burham was back in custody. The couple, upon investigating their dog’s barking, found Burham on the rear of their property. During a brief conversation, Burham mentioned something about camping. Recognizing him as the fugitive, the property owner quickly ensured his wife’s safety and contacted the authorities while Burham fled into the nearby woods.
“Pushing Hard” Strategy Pays Off
Law enforcement had been relentlessly pursuing Burham, employing a strategy to push him hard and force a mistake. Lieutenant Colonel Bivens expressed satisfaction that their strategy had finally paid off. Searchers, aided by two dogs, tracked Burham through the woods until he encountered troopers on a road. Despite attempting to hide, Burham was apprehended by federal marshals, border patrol, and state police at gunpoint.
Dirty, Wet, and Without a Weapon
Upon capture, Burham appeared exhausted and disheveled, still wearing his jail-issued pants turned inside out. Although authorities did not find the weapon they feared he possessed, as ammunition linked to him had been discovered in small stockpiles through DNA analysis, a thorough search of the area was conducted to ensure no hidden weapons were present.
Community Support and Investigation Continues
Lieutenant Colonel Bivens expressed gratitude to the residents of the county and surrounding areas for their patience and cooperation during the manhunt. As the investigation into Burham’s escape and potential assistance continues, authorities will consult with the county district attorney to determine if charges should be filed against anyone. Meanwhile, District Attorney Jason Schmidt of Chautauqua County, New York, revealed that Burham was the prime suspect in a May 11 homicide and arson case. New York officials have deferred to Pennsylvania for the initial prosecution while they investigate the killing and arson.
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