Monroe, Washington – Authorities are on the hunt for a Washington state prison inmate who managed to escape from the Monroe Correctional Complex on Friday morning. Patrick Lester Clay, aged 59, reportedly absconded around 7:40 a.m. after seizing keys to a staff member’s vehicle and driving off the premises.

How the Escape Unfolded

Clay’s escape occurred during routine maintenance cleaning when he broke into a staff office and pilfered keys to a staff member’s car. He then swiftly made his getaway, raising concerns about the security protocols at the facility, according to the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC).

Description of the Escapee

Clay, who was housed in the minimum-security unit of the prison, was last spotted driving a white four-door GMC Sierra truck bearing the license plate number C39525X. The DOC provided a detailed description of Clay’s attire at the time of escape, including khaki pants, a khaki jacket, a khaki beanie, white tennis shoes, and a yellow DOC vest. Additionally, authorities alerted the public to the possibility that Clay might have changed into a blue/gray zip-up sweatshirt and a black cap.

Community Response and Concerns

Residents in the vicinity were promptly notified and urged to exercise caution by securing their homes and remaining indoors. Kim Eichner, a Monroe resident, expressed her unease, highlighting the disconcerting ease with which an inmate could flee, raising questions about the adequacy of the facility’s security measures.

Chris Wright, the communication director for the DOC, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the immediate priority of locating Clay and conducting a comprehensive review of the incident to identify any lapses in security protocols and prevent future occurrences.

Previous Convictions and Release Date

Clay, with a criminal history including convictions for burglary, malicious mischief, harassment, and theft in King County, was slated for release on December 24, 2025, according to DOC records.

Seeking Public Assistance

Authorities have urged anyone who spots the stolen vehicle or Clay himself to refrain from approaching him and instead contact 911 or the Monroe Correctional Complex at 360-794-2720 immediately.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Vigilant

The escape of an inmate from the Monroe Correctional Complex underscores the importance of community vigilance and robust security measures. As authorities intensify efforts to locate Patrick Lester Clay, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activities promptly.

For the latest updates on this developing situation and more news alerts, download The Local News App to your smartphone today.

Source