Deputies: Fugitive George Wood pries bars off patrol car, runs away, climbs tree

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — A Palm Coast fugitive managed to escape from a Flagler County patrol car, run away and climb up a tree before he was caught Tuesday night, authorities said.

Volusia County Sheriff’s Office deputies were able to track him down via helicopter.

Deputies said George Wood, 31, was handcuffed in the back of the cruiser, but was able to move his hands from behind his back and pry open bars in the cruiser to make his escape.

Volusia County’s Air One coordinated with authorities and dogs on the ground to capture Wood.

A Flagler County deputy and a Bunnell police officer originally encountered him in front of a Circle K store, where they said he was arguing with another man.

As they tried to handcuff him, they said he tried to run and dove head first into the passenger’s side of a van. They said he tried to control the van from the passenger’s side.

The van struck a pole and nearly struck a police officer, deputies said.

An officer then used a Taser on Wood, handcuffed him and put him in the cruiser. Deputies said Wood escaped while officers were looking through his vehicle.

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office said proper policy was followed when arresting Wood.

When Wood escaped, climbed the tree and then realized he was surrounded, he told officers, “I’m over here” and jumped or fell from the tree.

Wood had minor injuries from his capture.

Authorities found a loaded handgun in his car, and because Wood had at least 10 felony convictions, he’ll be charged with having that weapon, along with fleeing law enforcement, criminal mischief and battery on a law enforcement officer.

Those charges are on top of the violation of probation charge, for which he was originally wanted.

Channel 9 learned that the cruiser Wood escaped from is one of seven remaining from an older fleet.

The Sheriff’s Office said it will work to replace those units and that it’s looking into any malfunctions the units may have.

Cox Media Group