Escapee Marcus Buchanan evades police

A PRISON escapee who was linked to a burnt-out car in South Grafton recently and is believed to be armed with a firearm remained at large.

PATROL: Nimbin Place in Coffs Harbour was the scene of an extrensive search this week. Picture: David Barwell

A PRISON escapee who was linked to a burnt-out car in South Grafton recently and is believed to be armed with a firearm remained at large after a high-profile police operation on Thursday.

Marcus Buchanan, 33, has evaded police for more than a month after escaping Glen Innes Correctional Facility on October 27.

A car stolen from Glen Innes the morning after Buchanan’s escape was then torched in McFarlane St, South Grafton on October 31, although no trace of the escapee was found

On Thursday, following police inquiries, a Nimbin Place, Coffs Harbour, home believed to be connected to Buchanan was searched by officers on Thursday.

ON THE RUN: Marcus Kenneth Buchanan remains at large. Picture: NSW Police Image

Police closed the road as officers wearing bullet-proof vests inspected the home, but Buchanan was not located.

As part of the operation, police evacuated several adjoining properties and teachers from the nearby St Augustine’s Primary School were instructed to keep students indoors to ensure their safety.

Coffs/Clarence crime manager Detective Inspector Darren Jameson said Buchanan had links to the Coffs Harbour area and there was “a strong possibility” he remained in the region.

Buchanan is described as Aboriginal in appearance, of medium build, 165cm tall, with brown hair and eyes.

Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800333000.

Originally published as Escapee Marcus Buchanan evades police