Drones, K-9s used to search for wanted man last seen near Lawrence school

LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) - Investigators continue to search with drones and K-9s for a wanted man who got away from them during an attempted arrest near a Lawrence middle school.

The Lawrence, Kansas, Police Department warned community just after 1:10 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, to avoid the area of 14th and Connecticut St. as law enforcement officials attempt to take a wanted suspect into custody.

LKPD indicated that the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office attempted to help investigators take the wanted man, identified as Cadence Elijah Nunez Ruckman, 28, into custody, however, he took off and has not been seen since.

Law enforcement officials said s at nearby New York Elementary School and Liberty Memorial Central Middle School have been made aware of the situation. Appropriate measures have been taken to ensure student safety.

Investigators noted that drones and K-9 officers have been utilized as the search continues. Nunez Ruckman was last seen on a bicycle, however, the bike has since been recovered, as he is believed to be on foot.

As of 4:20 p.m., LKPD said Nunez Ruckman remains at large, however, the search area has been mostly cleared. He has been described as a man who stands at about 5-foot-6, weighs 170 lbs., and has black hair and blue eyes. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

Law enforcement officials noted that Nunez Ruckman was last seen wearing a beige tank top and black pants. Anyone with information about his whereabouts should not approach him and call 911 immediately.

No further information has been released.

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