Search Continues For Escaped Inmates Accused Of Murder: Salinas

SALINAS, CA — The Monterey County Sheriff's Office has offered a $5,000 reward for information that leads to the capture of two inmates who escaped the Monterey County Adult Detention Facility early Sunday.

Santos Samuel Fonseca, 21, and Jonathan Salazar, 20, were both awaiting trial on unrelated murder charges along with numerous other felony charges when they slipped away from the Salinas jail, according to the Monterey County Sheriff's Office. Both men have been in custody since 2018.

During a press conference held Monday, the sheriff's office revealed the two inmates escaped through a hole they dug in a jail bathroom ceiling. After punching out sheet rock and a metal screen, the men kicked open a hatch that led to the rear of the jail and a construction area, which allowed them access to the outside. The duo identified the escape route as security camera blind spots, according to the sheriff's office.

Fonseca is described as 5’7” tall weighing 150 pounds, and Salazar is 5’7" tall weighing 170 pounds. Both are Hispanic with black hair and brown eyes.

Both men are considered dangerous, the sheriff's office said. If you see one or both, call 911.

Tips on their whereabouts can be called into the sheriff's office at (831) 755-3722. Tips can also be submitted to the sheriff's We Tip line by calling (888) 833-4847. "You can remain anonymous," the sheriff's office said.