ST ANN, Jamaica - A manhunt has been launched for a man who was under police guard at the St Ann's Bay hospital for the alleged rape and murder of 8-year-old Talia Thompson after he escaped custody on Sunday morning.
The details of the incident are not yet known but police say the 27-year-old managed to escape around 12:15 am.
The lawmen say measures have been put in place to have him back in custody in the shortest possible time.
The accused was under police guard from Sunday, September 24 pending charges for the incident.
Young Talia was allegedly raped and murdered on Saturday, September 23 by the man, who is said to be a close family friend.
He was taken to hospital after reportedly shooting himself and inflicting several stab wounds to his body in an attempted suicide.
READ: Man attempts suicide after allegedly raping, killing 8-y-o girl
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