Who is Antoine Massey? 9th escaped New Orleans inmate captured

NEW ORLEANS – Law enforcement officials have arrested Antoine Massey, one of the 10 inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16, 2025. Massey was captured on Friday, June 27 at a house located in the Hollygrove neighborhood of New Orleans, just two miles from the jail.

The U.S. Marshals Office confirmed his arrest after receiving a tip through Crimestoppers. According to police, Massey surrendered without resistance. He walked out of the home and gave himself up peacefully.

Background of the Escape

Massey was facing multiple serious charges before escaping, including:

• Rape

• Kidnapping

• Domestic abuse involving strangulation

• Violation of a protective order

• Motor vehicle theft

• Parole violation

Officials said more charges will be added after his capture.

On the night of the escape, Massey and nine others broke out through a hole behind a toilet. They used a broken cell door to access the escape point and climbed a barbed-wire fence to flee. The jail staff did not notice the escape until a morning headcount the next day.

In a bold move, the inmates left a message near the escape hole that read “Too Easy LOL”, pointing at the gap.

Social Media Activity

While on the run, Massey posted several videos on Instagram under the username @_007.chucky. The posts showed him inside a house, and officials used these videos to track him down. A raid was carried out earlier this month but failed to find him. However, a new tip on Friday helped police locate his hiding place.

Investigation Continues

Authorities believe Massey had outside help during his six weeks as a fugitive. Louisiana State Police said it is clear he could not have stayed hidden alone for that long.

A woman believed to be in a relationship with Massey has been arrested. She is charged with obstruction of justice and helping in the escape. Officials claim she knew about the plan, spoke with Massey after the escape, and misled police.

Jail Staff Under Investigation

A jail maintenance worker is also under investigation. Police allege he turned off the water supply, allowing the inmates to cut through the wall behind the toilet. His lawyer says he did not know about the escape plan.

One Inmate Still Missing

With Massey now back in custody, only one escapee, Derrick Groves, is still on the run. He was convicted of murder. A $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to Groves’ arrest.

Law enforcement praised the teamwork between agencies, including:

• New Orleans Police

• Louisiana State Police

• Homeland Security

• Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office

• U.S. Marshals

Who is Antoine Massey?

Antoine Massey, a 33-year-old inmate who gained national attention after escaping from the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans, has been recaptured by authorities. He was one of 10 inmates who broke out of the facility on May 16, 2025, in what has been described as one of the largest jailbreaks in recent U.S. history.