Inmate loses weight, escapes through jail vent

updated 3:53 a.m. ET July 20, 2008

HEMPSTEAD, Texas - Texas police are searching for a man who slimmed down to escape from jail.

Authorities say Darryl Layne Norris, who is charged with murder, had been shedding pounds since checking into the Waller County Jail in April. They say he slipped out through an air conditioner vent less than a foot wide.

The jail noticed the 6-foot, 160-pound man was missing after performing a routine head count.

The 26-year-old and another man are charged with murder in connection with an April convenience store robbery. Police aren't sure if Norris is armed, but they say he is dangerous.

Authorities say "He could be anywhere right now."

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