Dangerous Escapee Sought After Breaking Out of Western State Hospital

Officials warn public not to approach the suspect, who is considered a threat due to pending violent charges.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:29pm

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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 escape of a dangerous patient from a psychiatric hospital.The escape of a patient facing violent charges raises concerns about security measures at psychiatric facilities.Vancouver Today

Authorities are searching for 25-year-old Joshua Dylan Rice, who escaped from the Western State Hospital in Lakewood, Washington on March 31st. Rice is facing pending charges of robbery, assault, and motor vehicle theft, and is described as dangerous. Officials have advised the public not to approach him if spotted, but to call 9-1-1 immediately.

Why it matters

Escapes from psychiatric hospitals raise concerns about public safety and the security measures in place at these facilities. This incident highlights the need for improved protocols to prevent dangerous individuals from fleeing custody, especially those facing serious criminal charges.

The details

Joshua Dylan Rice broke out of the Western State Hospital around 8 PM on March 31st. Officials did not provide details on how he escaped. Rice has a criminal history in Multnomah County, Oregon and may have associates in the Salmon Creek area north of Vancouver, Washington and North Bend, Oregon.

  • Joshua Dylan Rice escaped from Western State Hospital on March 31, 2026 around 8 PM.
  • As of April 2, 2026, Rice is still at large.

The players

Joshua Dylan Rice

A 25-year-old man facing pending charges of robbery, assault, and motor vehicle theft who escaped from Western State Hospital and is considered dangerous by authorities.

Western State Hospital

A psychiatric hospital located in Lakewood, Washington where Rice was being held prior to his escape.

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What’s next

Authorities have increased security measures at Western State Hospital and are actively searching for Joshua Dylan Rice. The public is advised to report any sightings to the police immediately.

The takeaway

This escape highlights the ongoing challenges psychiatric hospitals face in balancing patient care with public safety, and the need for robust security protocols to prevent dangerous individuals from fleeing custody.