Liberty County escapee captured in Washington state

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office confirms that escaped inmate Yorlan Rafael Reyes was apprehended at approximately 4:30 p.m. Aug. 5 in the Seattle, Wash., area.

Reyes escaped from Liberty County Sheriff’s Office custody during the early morning hours of July 18, 2026, while receiving medical treatment at HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.

During the investigation, members of the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division developed numerous leads regarding Reyes’ movements and the individuals who may have assisted him following the escape.

Investigators developed information indicating that Reyes was later in Cleveland, Texas, where he allegedly entered a residence and obtained clothing. Investigators further learned that he stayed at a nearby residence with individuals known to him until the early morning hours of July 21, 2026.

Reyes was then reportedly transported to a former work yard in the Houston area. Investigators received information regarding a possible sighting at that location, but Reyes was not located during the subsequent search.

The investigation later revealed that Reyes received assistance traveling to the Seattle, Washington, area. Liberty County investigators continued following leads, including dead ends, inaccurate information, and false reports, and eventually identified a cellular telephone number believed to be in Reyes’ possession.

Investigators provided the developed information and telephone number to the United States Marshals Service. Using that information and additional investigative resources, the U.S. Marshals Service developed a potential location for Reyes.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 5, 2026, members of the United States Marshals Service in Washington located and apprehended Reyes. Investigators learned that Reyes had been performing construction-related work while in the Seattle area.

The investigation also developed information indicating that, while in Washington, Reyes continued sending threatening messages to females in Texas, including messages involving their juvenile daughters. Those allegations remain under investigation, and additional criminal charges may be filed.

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Houston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the United States Marshals Service for their assistance throughout the investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office especially recognizes the United States Marshals Service for the countless hours and resources devoted to locating Reyes and returning him to custody.

“I am extremely proud of our investigators. They worked through false reports, dead ends, and constantly changing information until they developed the lead that helped the U.S. Marshals Service locate and apprehend Reyes. This arrest reflects their determination and the strength of our law enforcement partnerships.”

Reyes faces an additional charge of Escape. The investigation remains active, and additional charges against Reyes and other individuals may be forthcoming.

Arrangements will be made for Reyes to be returned to the appropriate jurisdiction.