Police Search for Escapee Who Assaulted 2 Officers in Melbourne

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Melbourne police are searching for a 24-year-old man who escaped custody at a local hospital and assaulted two officers before fleeing into a wooded area. The suspect, Eric Jordan Jerry, was initially taken into custody on an outstanding warrant but told officers he was suffering a medical issue and was transported to the hospital, where he then attacked the officers and escaped his handcuffs.

Why it matters

Incidents of suspects escaping police custody and assaulting officers are concerning for public safety, and this case highlights the challenges law enforcement face in transporting and securing detainees, especially those claiming medical issues. The search for the suspect in a heavily wooded area also strains police resources.

The details

According to police, Jerry assaulted the two officers as he was being removed from the police vehicle at Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital. He then managed to escape his handcuffs and run into the woods south of the hospital. Officers from four Brevard agencies, including the Brevard County Sheriff's Office helicopter, drones, and canines, searched the area overnight but Jerry remained at large as of early Thursday morning.

• On Wednesday night, February 11, 2026, police took Jerry into custody on an outstanding warrant.
• As he was being transported to the Brevard County Jail, Jerry told officers he was suffering a medical issue and was taken to Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital.
• At the hospital, Jerry assaulted the two officers and escaped custody, fleeing into the nearby woods.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Police are continuing their search for Eric Jordan Jerry in the wooded area around the hospital, utilizing helicopters, drones, and canines to try and locate the suspect.