Early this morning at 12.45am, a young male escaped from the Don Dale Youth Detention Centre.

The young person had been received into custody at Don Dale around 30 minutes earlier. Youth Justice Officers had escorted him to the shower area within admissions and were processing his arrival whilst he showered.

The young person then exited the building through an emergency exit door while the Youth Justice Officers’ view was obscured by the reception desk. NT Police were immediately notified and were onsite by 12.51am.

The young person climbed over the inner perimeter fence before navigating his way through the four coils of razor wire on the outer perimeter fence and climbing over that too. He was injured during the process. Within minutes, Youth Justice Officers responded by conducting a vehicle patrol of the area in an effort to locate the young person.

An incident debrief was carried out this morning. Further actions include a review of staff supervision practices and escape emergency response procedures. The public are encouraged to contact Police if they see this young person, or know of his whereabouts.

Media contact: Christine Bond - 8999 2940, 0475 953 571