Escaped inmate still on the run; authorities suspend search in Iredell County

CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — Authorities in Iredell County have suspended their search for a man who escaped a prison in Caldwell County. However, law enforcement is still looking for him.

Investigators said 37-year-old Matthew Neil Brown escaped from the Caldwell County Correctional Center on Monday night.

Brown had been serving a 19-month sentence at the minimum-security prison for charges related to possession of drugs and stolen goods. According to police records, he was scheduled for release in February 2024.

On Tuesday, investigators went door to door searching for Brown in a neighborhood west of Statesville. He was allegedly sighted along Belle Meade Avenue, nearly 40 miles away from Caldwell County.

Deputies believed he may have gone to Statesville because his mom and sister live in the same neighborhood.

Law enforcement told Channel 9′s Dave Faherty that drones, K-9s, and helicopters are aiding in the search. They said it is unclear how Brown escaped the facility.

After searching extensively for eight hours in the area of Bristol Road off Highway 70 West, Iredell County Sheriff’s Office deputies and investigators, along with correctional officers, said they’ve decided to call off the investigation at this point.

According to the sheriff’s office, there’s no definitive information that supports Brown being in the area. However, deputies said they’ll continue patrolling the area.

Residents in the Statesville area said they are taking every precaution and hope Brown is captured soon.

“I got a gun. And I ain’t gonna fool with him. He ain’t got no business down here,” neighbor Tom Rhyne said.

“It’s very unnerving. Because I got a lot of work I want to do outside and I’m a little bit nervous about being out here by myself,” neighbor Vickie Mecimore explained.

Brown is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs around 160 pounds. He has black hair, green eyes, and a beard.

If anyone has any information regarding Brown’s whereabouts, they are urged to contact 911 immediately or reach out to the Caldwell Correctional Center at 1-828-726-2509.

You can also reach authorities in Iredell County by calling 704-878-3100.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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