Police continue their search for 35-year-old Todd John Lewis, who escaped from the Southeast Regional Correctional Centre in Shediac, N.B., on Thursday. If you live in New Brunswick, you likely noticed a flurry of emergency alerts and updates over the weekend regarding his status.

Lewis escaped the provincial jail, located about 25 kilometres northeast of Moncton, around 5:20 p.m. Thursday by climbing a fence. He fled toward Route 15. While police believe he could be in the greater Moncton area, residents across the province, including here in Saint John, should remain aware of his description.

Conflicting Alerts Explained

You may have felt confused by the messaging sent to your phone on Saturday. At 1:19 p.m., an emergency alert stated Lewis was "still at large" and advised residents to call 911 if they saw him. However, around the same time, the New Brunswick RCMP posted on Facebook that the previous day’s provincewide alert had ended.

RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Hans Ouellette described the situation as a "technical" matter. He explained that emergency alerts typically last 24 hours. Police determined the threat level had changed, meaning the alert did not need to remain active in the same capacity, though the search remains active. Ouellette noted that police can reactivate alerts if the threat to the public increases.

Description and Safety Instructions

Police advise you not to approach Lewis if you spot him. Instead, call 911 immediately.

Todd John Lewis is described as:

• Five feet seven inches tall
• 146 pounds
• Blonde hair and blue eyes
• Last seen wearing blue pants, a brown coat, and a black hat

Lewis was in custody awaiting a court date for weapons-related offences. Police were notified of his escape early Friday morning, several hours after he fled the facility.

If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, contact the New Brunswick RCMP at 1-888-506-RCMP (7267) or dial 911.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the escaped inmate?

The escaped inmate is 35-year-old Todd John Lewis. He was being held at the Southeast Regional Correctional Centre in Shediac on weapons-related charges.

Where was he last seen?

Lewis escaped the Shediac jail and ran toward Route 15. Police have indicated he could be in the greater Moncton area.

Is the emergency alert still active?

While the specific broadcast alert has ended due to technical protocols regarding the duration of alerts, the police search is very much active. Police advise the public to remain vigilant.

What should I do if I see him?

Do not approach him. Call 911 immediately to report the sighting.