Escaped Inmate Seen Running In Traffic In Opelousas

The Opelousas Police Department has issued a public safety alert as officers actively search for an escaped inmate identified as 34-year-old Michael Vavasseur.

According to authorities, Vavasseur escaped custody around 3:30 PM on Wednesday (April 15) while being transported from STOA Behavioral Health back to the St. Landry Parish Jail. During that transport, police say he was able to partially free himself from restraints before fleeing from the vehicle.

UPDATE: Police Clarify Custody Status Of Escaped Man

The Opelousas Police Department has released new information clarifying Michael Vavasseur's status at the time of his escape.

According to officials, Vavasseur was placed in inpatient treatment on January 16, 2026, as a condition of his bond. At the time of the incident, he was being transported back to the St. Landry Parish Jail by the treatment facility, not by law enforcement.

Police emphasized that Vavasseur was not in the custody of the Opelousas Police Department, nor the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office. He was also not considered an inmate of the jail at the time of the escape.

Despite that clarification, authorities say Vavasseur remains at large and should still be considered dangerous. The public is urged not to approach him and to report any information immediately to Opelousas Police or St. Landry Crime Stoppers.

ORIGINAL STORY:

The escape happened near the intersection of U.S. Highway 190 and Wallior Street, a busy area that quickly became the focus of a police response.

Video Appears To Show Escape In Progress

A video shared on social media by a local resident appears to show a man matching Vavasseur’s description running across a busy roadway while still wearing shackles.

In the footage, the man is seen moving quickly through traffic toward a nearby gas station. As the camera pans, an open transport van door can be seen, which is believed to be the vehicle he escaped from.

While police have not officially confirmed the video, the details closely align with information released by authorities.

Last Known Location And Description

Police say Vavasseur was last seen in the area of Cenla Street and High Street. He was reportedly wearing a gray T-shirt and gray shorts at the time of his escape.

Authorities are urging residents in the area to remain alert and report any sightings immediately.

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Considered Dangerous By Authorities

Officials say Vavasseur is considered dangerous due to prior violent offenses. The Opelousas Police Department is stressing that the public should not attempt to approach him under any circumstances.

Anyone with information is asked to call Opelousas Police at (337) 948 2500 or dial 911. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to St. Landry Crime Stoppers at (337) 948 TIPS.

Investigation Remains Ongoing

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Police say additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.