Two Inmates Escape from Blackburn Correctional Complex, Authorities Launch Search in Lexington

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Authorities are currently searching for two inmates who escaped from Blackburn Correctional Complex on Sunday night. The Kentucky State Police are urging the public to be on the lookout for the individuals involved in the escape.

The two inmates, identified as Adam Ball, 38, from Russell Springs, and Bradley Cornwell, 40, from Georgetown, managed to escape using a water truck. The exact circumstances surrounding how they gained access to the truck remain unclear. Police have confirmed that the last known location of the inmates was at Casey’s Gas Station off Ironworks Pike.

Residents in the area have expressed frustration over the lack of notification regarding the escape. John McCray, a newcomer to Lexington, stated, “I didn’t hear nothing about this whatsoever… I don’t know how well their security is.” Barbara Rudd, a ten-year resident living behind the facility, noted that at least ten inmates have escaped during her time in the neighborhood. Despite this, she claimed that she does not feel overly concerned, citing the presence of her dog and firearms for protection.

McCray suggested that local law enforcement should implement a more effective alert system for the community. “There should have been some type of a system… an alert like an amber alert would have been nice,” he said.

Descriptions of the escapees have been released to assist in their capture. Adam Ball is described as a bald white male, standing 6’3” tall and weighing approximately 250 pounds, with blue eyes. Bradley Cornwell is a white male, six feet tall, weighing 175 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.

Social media platforms have seen various residents reporting potential sightings of the inmates, with locations mentioned including South Broadway Street, Payne Street, and the intersection of East Jefferson and North Hamilton Streets.

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the Department of Corrections is actively monitoring the situation. Authorities are advising anyone who sees the escapees to refrain from approaching them and to contact local law enforcement immediately.

In the wake of the escape, McCray emphasized the importance of situational awareness: “It doesn’t matter if someone escaped from the prison or is on your street… making eye contact is important to make sure they know you saw them, that’s probably a really good first deterrence.”