A Killer at the Door

The gripping true story of convicted murderer Danilo Cavalcante's daring prison escape and intense manhunt in Chester County, PA in summer 2023.

In summer 2023, Chester County, Pennsylvania, was shaken by the daring escape of convicted murderer Danilo Cavalcante.

Using a "crab-walking" method, Cavalcante scaled a prison wall, sparking a gripping two-week manhunt. He traversed forests, farmlands, and neighborhoods, evading law enforcement and causing schools to close, businesses to shutter, and streets to empty.

The pursuit showcased his survival skills and the relentless efforts of authorities using drones, thermal imaging, K-9 units, and traditional tracking.

The saga ended in a dramatic capture, emphasizing the thin line between freedom and confinement.

Chester County resident and award-winning journalist Bruce Mowday recounts the escape and search, drawing on firsthand accounts from residents, law enforcement, officials, and local reporters.