Crime & Safety

Patient Escapes NJ Psychiatric Hospital, Flees To Nearby Woods

He was spotted on trail surveillance footage and found along Egg Harbor Road.

SEWELL, NJ — A psychiatric patient was found after escaping from Jefferson Hospital on Saturday, the Washington Township Police Department said.

The man fled to a wooded area nearby and a trail camera showed the man in the woods, and a K-9 was ordered to track his whereabouts, police said.

The man left through the ambulance bay doors and broke them in the process, a hospital spokesperson said. The doors have since been repaired. No one was hurt during the incident, the spokesperson said.

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Lt. Josh Hitzelberger found the man along Egg Harbor Road, and he was then taken to Inspira for treatment, police said.

An update on any injuries he may have sustained was not immediately available.

Find out what's happening in West Deptfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Patch has reached out to Jefferson Health for more on the events surrounding the escape.

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Note: This article has been updated with comment from Jefferson Hospital staff.

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