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A survivalist has issued a stark warning for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Ozarks of Arkansas to steer clear of the area as the search intensifies for a dangerous escaped convict.
The alert comes as officials continue to hunt for Grant Hardin, a former police chief nicknamed the “Devil in the Ozarks.” Hardin, aged 56, escaped from a medium-security prison in Calico Rock on May 25, according to the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Hardin was serving lengthy sentences for serious offenses including murder and rape. His past raises serious concerns among authorities and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, survival expert Shawn Hendrix expressed his worries about Hardin’s potential to pose a danger to unsuspecting individuals exploring the rural landscape. Hendrix highlighted the risks associated with Hardin’s survival skills, saying, “If he gets injured or contracts a foodborne illness from drinking contaminated water, it could quickly end his run.”
“The biggest concern is that hikers or campers may encounter him unexpectedly,” Hendrix added. His warning echoes growing alarms from local law enforcement about Hardin’s unpredictable nature and tendency to view individuals in the woods as resources.
Authorities are urging individuals to avoid the area to minimize the risk of dangerous encounters. In spite of his past as a police chief, Hardin’s record strongly indicates a capacity for violence.
Additionally, Hardin’s escape followed a highly calculated move through a sally port while donning a makeshift uniform similar to those worn by correctional staff, a tactic that raised eyebrows among prison officials.
The former police chief’s criminal history is alarming. Hardin pled guilty to fatally shooting a man in 2017. The case took a dark turn when DNA evidence linked him to a cold-case rape from 1997, for which he also pleaded guilty.
As the search continues, the FBI and U.S. Marshals have increased their efforts, offering a combined reward of $25,000 for any information leading to his capture. They encourage anyone with details about Hardin’s whereabouts to call the FBI.
Hendrix painted a vivid picture of Hardin’s potential survival strategy, emphasizing that at 259 pounds, Hardin possesses enough caloric reserves to endure for weeks in the dense wilderness of the Ozarks. This area, rich in natural resources, could provide him with the means to sustain himself.
“The Ozarks contain abundant natural food supplies such as berries, fish, and other flora that could sustain him,” Hendrix stated. However, he cautioned that the loud noise from firearms could hinder Hardin’s ability to hunt effectively if he opted for that method.
In their ongoing manhunt, police are focusing on uncovering signs of habitation in the woods, such as concealed campfires or hidden food supplies.
Despite earlier confidence in pinpointing Hardin’s location within the Ozarks, recent developments indicate he may have ventured beyond state lines. An unconfirmed sighting in Missouri shortly after his escape has raised the alarm, prompting federal authorities to consider the possibility that he has already left the region.
Compounding the situation, the Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert J. Hammons expressed concerns in a federal complaint indicating that Hardin, with his extensive knowledge of the Ozarks, may have taken refuge in familiar terrain.
Authorities remain vigilant in their search efforts. As they navigate the complex terrain of the Ozarks, officials emphasize the importance of public safety while continuing to gather information from local communities and outdoor groups.
Hendrix’s assessment of Hardin’s character portrays him as an individual lacking empathy and morally devoid, which heightens the urgency of capturing him before he can further evade capture. “This guy is just so evil. He has shown no regard for human life,” Hendrix said, noting Hardin’s history as a potentially dangerous fugitive.
In light of these developments, law enforcement remains focused on gathering leads regarding Hardin’s possible whereabouts. As the manhunt remains active, those in the region are advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid isolated areas, and report any suspicious sightings to authorities.
With various resources at their disposal, including trained dogs and aerial surveillance, search teams are committed to tracking down Hardin. The community is encouraged to stay alert and assist in ensuring the safety of the Ozarks as the hunt continues.
The situation underscores the importance of vigilance among outdoor enthusiasts in the region. As authorities work diligently to resolve this urgent situation, everyone is reminded of the risks posed by individuals with a history of violence.
In the face of this ongoing search, the Ozarks will serve both as a backdrop for the efforts of law enforcement and as a warning to those seeking solace in nature.
