KSP: Accused killer escapes during return to jail

BEATTYVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ)- State Police say an accused killer escaped Friday afternoon in Lee County while being taken back to jail following a court appearance. Investigators say 31-year old William Napier, of Clayhole, escaped from a Breathitt Count transport van on KY 52, east of Beattyville.

Napier was being returned to Three Forks Regional Jail after being in court in Breathitt County, according to KSP.

Investigators say after escaping, Napier swam across a river and was last seen on Rock of Ages Road. He was wearing khaki pants and was shirtless. He is described as 5’10” tall and 180-pounds, with brown hair, brown eyes and he may have a cut on one of his arms or hands, according to State Police.

Napier is accused of stabbing 29-year old Charles Costello, of Jackson, to death during a fight in the parking lot of the Jackson Inn Motel September 4, 2016.

Anyone with information about Napier’s whereabouts is asked to call KSP Post 7 at 859-623-2404.