Update: TDCJ Huntsville Unit Escapee in Custody

Huntsville, Texas – The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) searched the area of the Huntsville Unit this morning for clues on how a dangerous inmate escaped.  Jesus Villareal, 39 years old, was found missing from the Huntsville Unit on Sunday, September 8 in Huntsville, Texas.  

Villarreal is believed to have been spotted on a convenience store surveillance camera located at 901 11th Street leaving in a maroon Chevy Malibu with Texas license plate BK7P566.

Villarreal is serving a 63-year sentence for four counts of aggravated robbery and two counts of aggravated assault out of Cameron County.  He received an additional charge of possession of a deadly weapon in a penal institution in 2015.

Melissa Lozano was taken into custody by OIG this morning and charged with Hindering Apprehension. Lozano is accused of assisting Villarreal with the escape.

Villarreal will face felony escape charges. The Texas Board of Criminal Justice Office of Inspector General is conducting an investigation into the escape. If you have any tips regarding their investigation into the escape, you may reach them at 1-800-832-8477.