HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C. — Authorities are actively searching for Erick Perez, an inmate who escaped from the Henderson County Detention Facility on Thursday afternoon.
The escape occurred around 12:10 p.m. on July 17, 2025. According to officials, Perez exited the facility through a door designated for emergency use in the recreation area—a door not utilized during routine operations. He then climbed over the perimeter fence.
A detention officer discovered the door unsecured during a routine check, prompting an immediate headcount, which confirmed Perez was missing.
Perez was in custody on charges of breaking, entering, and larceny. He is a Mexican national and is also subject to an immigration detainer.
The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating whether the escape resulted from mechanical failure or human error. The U.S. Marshals Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force and local law enforcement are assisting in the search.
A manhunt is underway after an inmate escaped a North Carolina detention center by using an emergency exit and climbing the fence.
