'Armed And Dangerous' Inmate Escapes From GA Hospital: Cops

ATLANTA, GA — A Rockdale County inmate who was being medically examined at Grady Memorial Hospital after a suicide attempt has escaped custody, authorities said Monday.

Timothy Shane was taken to Grady around 8 p.m. Sunday, but hours later, was accused of escaping the custody of deputies around 1:15 a.m. Monday, the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office said.

Shane was accused of then fleeing Grady on foot before stealing a parked SUV. Authorities said Shane was then involved in an accident before leaving the scene by foot.

The owner of the SUV told authorities a Glock handgun was stolen from the vehicle, they said.

Law enforcement has multiple units searching the area for Shane, authorities said.

They added he is 5-feet-9-inches tall and has a buzzed hair cut. He was wearing a blue hospital gown with no shoes when they said he escaped.

"Inmate Shane has a history of fleeing, along with felony drug and weapon charges. He should be considered armed and dangerous," authorities said in a news release.

Rockdale County Jail records on Monday showed Shane was arrested on Nov. 24 on charges of felony fleeing or attempt to elude a police officer for a felony offense, possession of methamphetamine, possession of firearm or knife during the commission of or attempt to commit certain felonies, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon during the commission of a felony and receipt, possession or transfer of firearm by convicted felon or felony first offender. He was granted a cash or property bond for charges of no insurance and reckless driving, jail records showed.

Authorities asked anyone with information to call the sheriff's office, (770) 278-8000, or email authorities.

If you or someone you know is considering self-harm or suicide, there are resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline operates 24 hours a day and can be reached at 988. The Crisis Text Line can provide support through text messages by texting "HOME" to 741741.