A High-Stakes Pursuit Comes to an End

After nearly five months on the run, Derrick Groves—the final remaining fugitive from a daring May 2025 jail break in New Orleans—was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia, authorities confirmed. AP News

Deputy U.S. Marshal Brian Fair identified Groves’ capture following a multi-agency operation. He was found hiding in a crawl space inside a house during a coordinated raid involving the U.S. Marshals’ Southeast Regional Fugitive Taskforce and Atlanta SWAT teams.

Officials say the takedown followed hours of searching and a brief standoff. 3LiveNOW

The Jailbreak & Manhunt: Background

To fully understand the magnitude of Groves’ arrest, it helps to revisit the escape that triggered this prolonged pursuit.

The May 16 Escape

On May 16, 2025, ten inmates tunneled their way out of the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans. They reportedly removed a faulty cell toilet, squeezed through a created opening, and fled, scaling fences under cover of darkness.

Within weeks, authorities recaptured nine of the ten escapees—but Groves remained free until this week.

Groves’ Criminal Past

At the time of the escape, Groves was serving time following a 2024 conviction for second-degree murder. Prosecutors allege he opened fire at a Mardi Gras block party, killing two people and injuring others.

Because of the administrative delays in prison processing, Groves had not yet been transferred to a long-term prison facility when the escape occurred.

Authorities also suspect Groves’ escape may have been aided by external collaborators, including his girlfriend, Darriana Burton, and possibly a former jail maintenance worker.

The Capture: How It Unfolded

• Location & tactics: Groves was arrested in Southwest Atlanta, in a residential home where he was hiding.
• Standoff & surrender: Officials described a brief standoff; Groves was located in a crawl space within the house.
• Interagency collaboration: The arrest was orchestrated by joint efforts from the U.S. Marshals, Atlanta Police, and other agencies, with obtained leads via Crimestoppers and other tip lines.
• No additional arrests at scene: Reports indicate no one else was apprehended in that operation.

Reactions & Implications

Official Statements

New Orleans District Attorney Jason Williams called Groves’ capture “long-awaited,” praising the cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies.

Local law enforcement and state police likewise emphasized that Groves had one of the most violent records among the escapees, making his capture a top priority.

Public & Family Response

Groves’ mother, Stephanie Groves, expressed mixed emotions: relief that the manhunt is over, but concern for her son’s safety. AP News

In the public sphere, officials and victims’ families have voiced strong frustration over the jail’s security failures and the extended window Groves remained at large.

What Happens Next

• Transport and arraignment: Groves is expected to be transferred back to Louisiana to face charges for the escape, in addition to his original convictions.
• Investigations into complicity: Authorities continue to probe how Groves remained hidden for so long and the roles of alleged accomplices.
• Policy and accountability: The escape has prompted scrutiny of Orleans Parish Jail’s infrastructure, staffing, and oversight systems. Officials may pursue reforms or accountability measures.