Inmate who escaped from prison van in Southern California still on the run

KERN COUNTY, Calif. - The manhunt continues for a convicted killer who escaped from a prison van in Southern California two weeks ago. 

According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), Cesar Hernandez, 34, was being transported to the Kern County Superior Courthouse in Delano for a scheduled court appearance on Dec. 2. Hernandez was somehow able to jump out of the van and run away. 

Hernandez was convicted for first-degree murder out of Los Angeles County in 2019. He was sentenced to 25 years to life with the possibility of parole.

Surrounding communities such as Delano were put on high alert following the escape of Hernandez. 

"CDCR’s top priority is both the safety and security of the people who live and work in our institutions and the surrounding communities. Investigators have determined the security risk around Delano has subsided as it is most likely escapee Cesar Hernandez has fled the area," the CDCR said in a statement.

"We are listening to the concerns of the community and school districts regarding this situation and want to assure the Delano community that CDCR is fully committed to locating and apprehending Hernandez," the statement continued.

Multiple agencies are assisting in the search for Chavez, including CDCR’s Special Services Unit and Investigative Services Units from North Kern, Kern Valley and Wasco state prisons, as well as the California Highway Patrol, Delano, and McFarland police departments.

Hernandez is described as 5'5" tall, weighing 161 lbs, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing an orange top and orange pants.

If you see him, call 911.