Colorado inmate Ronald Caillier overpowers officers in hospital prison break

US News

By Katherine Donlevy

A Colorado inmate “overpowered” two police officers, fled a hospital and stole a neighbor’s minivan during a wild prison escape Friday — all while handcuffed.

Ronald Caillier, 38, launched the daring escape from the emergency room at Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center just before midnight, the Bent County Sheriff’s Office said.

Caillier, in chains, fled the hospital after “overpowering a deputy and a security guard” and slipped out into the night.

While driving through the La Junta neighborhood, the inmate spotted and carjacked a badly damaged white 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan – which happened to be left unlocked with the keys inside and a 9mm handgun under the seat of the driver.

Today, Caillier – who was being held on burglary and assault charges – is on the run, police said.

Authorities warned that he should be considered “armed and very dangerous.”

The deputy and security guard involved in the escape were treated for their injuries and have since been released.

When last seen, Caillier was wearing black and white striped pants and an orange t-shirt.

He was also handcuffed with his hands in front of his body.

The minivan he allegedly stole had damage to the passenger side door and a cracked rear passenger side window, police said.