11 inmates escape from Orleans Parish Justice Center in Louisiana

Eleven inmates escaped from the Orleans Parish Justice Center in Louisiana, authorities said Friday.

Officials discovered the inmates missing during a routine head count around 8:30 a.m. Friday, Sheriff Susan Hutson said at an afternoon news conference, calling it a “very serious and unacceptable situation.”

It’s not clear how they escaped. Chief Christopher Goodly with the sheriff’s office Field Operations Bureau said the inmates who breached or escaped custody should be considered armed and dangerous.

At least one of the escapees has been apprehended, New Orleans police said.

Authorities immediately “launched a coordinated response” to search for the inmates, the sheriff said.

“We’re actively working with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in a full-scale search operation,” she said.

Hutson told the public not to engage with or approach the inmates.

“We are urging the public to remain alert,” she said.

The sheriff’s office contacted local and state police, and the Louisiana Department of Corrections for assistance.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.