Owen J. Roberts School District to close Wednesday as hunt for escaped convict continues

SOUTH COVENTRY — For the second day, the Owen J. Roberts School District is closing all of its schools on Wednesday as authorities continue to hunt for escaped killer Danelo Cavalcante.

“Based on our conversations with state and local law enforcement, we have made the decision to close all schools and offices in our district tomorrow, Sept., 13,” Superintendent Will Stout announced Tuesday evening.

The decision to close schools on Wednesday will not change, even if the escaped inmate from Chester County Prison is apprehended Tuesday night, Stout said.

“Our school sites are currently being used to support law enforcement initiatives, and we also recognize that many of our families have been under a tremendous amount of stress these past two days,” the superintendent said.

The two-week-old search for the escaped killer is now focused on communities within the OJR district. More than 400 law enforcement officers are attempting to capture Cavalcante, who authorities say is armed and considered dangerous.

The safety and security of our students and staff remain the district’s top priority,” Stout said.

“We know that this situation is stressful and upsetting for our entire community,” Stout said. “We thank you once again for your patience, support and understanding throughout the past several days. Please be assured that we are in regular contact with the Pennsylvania State Police, Chester County Emergency Services and local law enforcement. In the event of any significant updates or changes in the situation, we will communicate with our staff and families to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.”