3 Inmates Who Escaped Georgia Jail Captured in Florida After Allegedly Kidnapping Lyft Driver During Interstate Getaway

United States — Three inmates who escaped from a Georgia detention facility have been captured in Broward County, Florida, after authorities say they used a Lyft for transportation across state lines and later allegedly kidnapped the driver during the trip. The unusual multi-state incident began with a jailbreak and ended with the men in custody facing a new round of criminal charges.

Escape From Georgia Jail Leads to Multi-State Search

Authorities confirmed that the three inmates fled the Dekalb County Jail and immediately sought assistance from a female acquaintance following their escape. According to early reports, the woman allowed the men to hide at her residence before helping them make arrangements to flee the state.

Investigators say the woman ordered a Lyft ride from Georgia to Florida for the escapees, enabling them to travel hundreds of miles away from the jail before officers narrowed down their location. Law enforcement agencies across Georgia and Florida were notified, and a coordinated search began shortly afterward.

Lyft Driver Describes Trip as “Traumatizing”

The Lyft driver who transported the escapees later told investigators that the ride quickly became disturbing and frightening, ultimately describing the experience as “traumatizing.” Authorities allege that the men took control of the situation during the interstate trip, turning what began as a routine ride into an alleged kidnapping incident.

Officials have not yet released additional details about what transpired inside the vehicle, but early investigative findings suggest the driver was not free to leave or end the ride, prompting the classification of kidnapping-related charges.

Despite the alleged intimidation and distress he endured, the driver survived the encounter and provided key information that helped investigators track the suspects after they arrived in Florida.

Captured in Broward County After Multi-Agency Effort

The three escapees were located and apprehended in Broward County, where officers moved in after receiving tips regarding their whereabouts. Authorities have not released the identities of the inmates at this stage, but confirmed that each individual was taken into custody without incident once located.

The arrest marks the end of a multi-state pursuit involving law enforcement agencies from both Georgia and Florida. Officials stated that the escape, interstate travel, and alleged kidnapping incident will now factor into a new set of charges the men are expected to face.

New Charges Expected Following Alleged Kidnapping

In addition to escape-related offenses, the three men now face new charges tied to the alleged kidnapping of the Lyft driver and any other crimes committed during their flight from custody. Investigators say more details will be released as the case develops and statements are collected from witnesses and the driver.

Authorities also confirmed that the female friend who assisted the escapees will likely face legal scrutiny of her own, as ordering transportation for fugitives may constitute aiding and abetting or obstruction charges depending on investigative findings.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that this case highlights the unpredictable and dangerous nature of escape attempts, particularly when innocent individuals become involved. For ongoing updates on major crime developments across the country, visit NapervilleLocal.com.