Phoenixville Schools Navigating Search For Escaped Murderer: Officials

PHOENIXVILLE, PA —Brand new Phoenixville Area School Superintendent Melissa McTiernan on Monday night expressed appreciation to the school staff for staying vigilant regarding the hunt for escaped murderer Danelo Cavalante in northern Chester County.

McTiernan had just started as superintendent this month, when Cavalcante, who has been on the run since Aug. 31, was reported late Saturday night in northern Chester County near Phoenixville.

Outdoor activities and recess are being conducted indoors. On Tuesday, McTiernan said the district will remain open, and after-school activities will resume.

"Safety and security is our top priority," McTiernan said to the school board Monday night during her first board meeting. “I thank the cabinet, the administration, and the staff. My first week in the district has been extremely positive.”

McTiernan said she has been keeping the district informed about the status of the search for Cavalcante and what if any impact it has on the district.

“Necessary precautions will be taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our staff and students," McTiernan wrote in a Facebook post on Monday.

“We understand that this situation continues to be concerning,” the superintendent wrote . “Our school counselors, mental health specialists, and administrators are available for families needing extra support and are encouraged to reach out. We are grateful for your patience and trust in us as we navigate these uncharted waters.”

The superintendent said that the district is in regular communication with law enforcement throughout the day and will provide regular updates.

McTiernan, a northeast Pennsylvania native, was named superintendent of the district at a school board meeting in July.

McTiernan comes to Phoenixville following a tenure at the helm of the 9,300-student Scranton School District, where she was known for her unwavering dedication and passion for the students, according to a statement from the Phoenixville school board.

Cavalcante was in Chester County Prison in Pocopson Township, awaiting transfer to state prison after being convicted of the April 2021 killing of Deborah Brandao, 33, in Schuylkill Township, which is part of the school district.