Escaped Inmate Flees Transport in Opelousas

Authorities search for Michael Vavasseur, 34, who escaped custody near U.S. Highway 190 and Wallior Street

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:04am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the failure of restraints to contain an escaped inmate.A dramatic close-up of the restraints that failed to contain an escaped inmate, raising concerns about transport security protocols.Opelousas Today

Authorities in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana are actively searching for an escaped inmate named Michael Vavasseur, 34, who was able to partially free himself from restraints and flee from a transport vehicle near the intersection of U.S. Highway 190 and Wallior Street in Opelousas. Vavasseur was last seen in the area of Cenla Street and High Street wearing a gray t-shirt and gray shorts.

Why it matters

Escaped inmates pose a serious public safety risk, and law enforcement must act quickly to apprehend the suspect and return him to custody. This incident raises questions about transport protocols and security measures for inmates, especially those with mental health issues who may require specialized care.

The details

Michael Vavasseur, 34, was being transported from STOA Behavioral Health back to the St. Landry Parish Jail when he was able to partially free himself from restraints and flee the transport vehicle near the intersection of U.S. Highway 190 and Wallior Street in Opelousas. Vavasseur was last seen in the area of Cenla Street and High Street wearing a gray t-shirt and gray shorts.

  • The incident occurred on April 16, 2026 during transport from STOA Behavioral Health to the St. Landry Parish Jail.

The players

Michael Vavasseur

A 34-year-old inmate who escaped custody while being transported from a behavioral health facility back to the St. Landry Parish Jail.

Opelousas Police Department

The law enforcement agency actively searching for the escaped inmate Michael Vavasseur in the Opelousas area.

St. Landry Crime Stoppers

The anonymous tip line where members of the public can report any information about the whereabouts of the escaped inmate.

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What’s next

Authorities are urging anyone who sees Vavasseur or has information on his whereabouts to immediately contact the Opelousas Police Department at (337) 948-2500 or call 911. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to St. Landry Crime Stoppers at (337) 948-TIPS (8477).

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of robust security protocols and proper training for inmate transport, especially for individuals with mental health issues who may pose an increased flight risk. Law enforcement must act swiftly to apprehend the escaped inmate and address any gaps in the system to prevent future escapes.