Fugitive on the run after escaping Chatham County patrol car; Police launch search

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Chatham County Police are searching for a fugitive who escaped from a patrol car Monday night near the intersection of Chatham Parkway and Police Memorial Drive.

Authorities identified the suspect as 39-year-old Robert Wayne Bookter.

He was last seen wearing handcuffs, a camouflage jacket, and camouflage pants. Bookter is described as 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing approximately 175 pounds, with green eyes and brown hair.

Police say Bookter had just been taken into custody on aggravated assault charges from another jurisdiction when he escaped.

Investigators believe he deployed a substance similar to pepper spray inside the patrol vehicle, causing the officer to stop.

Multiple law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search, which includes several K-9 units, a drone, and aviation support.