A manhunt is now underway across Gaston County following the escape of a Gastonia man from the Gaston Correctional Center on Thursday, according to officials.
The escapee, identified as 51-year-old Shannon Thomas Galloway, was last seen scaling the prison fence around 10:30 a.m., according to the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. Galloway was in the midst of serving a two-year sentence for larceny and was expected to be released on May 8, 2024.
Described as 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing just under 170 pounds, Galloway has blond hair, blue eyes, and is distinguishable by tattoos on both arms, his right leg, and his chest. Galloway is originally from Kings Mountain.
Authorities are urging the public to be on the lookout for Galloway. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Gaston Correctional Center at 704-922-3861.