Couple On The Run: Murder Suspects Escape Prison Transport In Utah

A husband and wife are on the run from the law after overpowering guards and escaping a prison transport in Utah.

Blane and Susan Barksdale, 56 and 59, respectively, are wanted for the murder in April of Frank Bligh, 72, in Tucson, Arizona. According to the Tucson Police Department, the two were in the process of being extradited from Henrietta, New York, to Pima County, Arizona, when they made their escape Tuesday.

According to News 4 Tucson, the couple managed to escape custody in the area of Blanding, Utah, roughly 40 miles from the Arizona border. The couple then took possession of a van, but later abandoned the vehicle in St. Johns, Arizona, where authorities later found it. They were last seen driving a red GMC pickup truck with damage to front passenger-side and rear bumpers, and an Arizona license plate reading “127XTY.”

Police are unsure what direction the couple is traveling in. They are believed to be armed and dangerous.

The Barksdales are facing charges of first-degree murder, burglary, and arson in connection with Bligh’s death. Their nephew, Brent Mallard, was also taken into custody by the Tucson Police on charges of arson, felony criminal damages and second-degree murder.

Authorities urge any individuals with information pertinent to the case to call 911 or 88-crime.