The search for Grant Hardin, a former police chief in Arkansas, is intensifying as he remains at large after escaping from prison. Hardin, 56, was serving a 30-year sentence for first-degree murder and rape when he fled the Calico Rock North Central Unit on Sunday at approximately 2:50 p.m. This marks the fourth day of search efforts by law enforcement.

According to the Stone County Sheriff’s Office, Hardin managed to escape by impersonating a corrections officer. He was able to convince another officer to open a secure gate, allowing him to walk out of the facility. Surveillance footage captured Hardin pulling a cart, which was later found abandoned outside the prison gates.

As the manhunt continues, officials are urging residents in Izard County and nearby areas to remain vigilant. They advise citizens to lock their doors and report any suspicious activity by calling 911. The U.S. Marshals and the Eastern Arkansas Fugitive Task Force have joined local authorities in the search.

Stone County Sheriff Brandon Long expressed concern for public safety, stating, "I am very scared that this guy is going to hurt or kill somebody before this is over with." Hardin, who previously served as the police chief of Gateway, Arkansas, worked in the prison kitchen. However, it is unclear if this role provided him access to the sally port he used to escape.

Officials noted that Hardin had no significant disciplinary issues during his incarceration, and there is no evidence suggesting he had assistance in his escape. Nathan Smith, a former Benton County prosecutor who was involved in Hardin's conviction, described him as "a sociopath" with no moral compass. He warned that Hardin is "considered to be extremely dangerous and should not be approached."

Authorities are employing various resources in their search, including helicopters, drones, K9 units, and ATVs. The search has been complicated by rugged terrain, dense woods, and recent rainfall, which have hindered efforts.

Hardin pleaded guilty in October 2017 to first-degree murder for the shooting death of 59-year-old James Appleton. He was also convicted of raping an elementary school teacher in Rogers, Arkansas, a crime featured in the 2023 documentary "Devil in the Ozarks."

Cheryl Tillman, the mayor of Gateway and sister of the murder victim, described Hardin as "an evil man" and expressed her fears about his escape, saying it feels like "déjà vu all over again."

Hardin is described as 6 feet tall and weighing 259 pounds. Authorities are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact local law enforcement immediately.