Osceola County sheriff's
investigators have arrested the father and 79-year-old grandmother of an inmate who escaped jail by removing a toilet from the floor, officials said. Michael Jamal Rigby, 21, escaped Friday from the Osceola County Jail, where he was being held on numerous felony charges, including attempted murder.
According to investigators, he was able to unbolt a toilet lift it off the floor. He then made a hole in the ground larger and climbed through it, investigators said. Rigby also managed to get past two fences while not being noticed, investigators said.
Rigby's father, Brian Rigby, of Orlando, was arrested Sunday after he helped his son get away, investigators said. Regina Ralph, Michael Bigby's grandmother, was arrested Monday on charges related to the escape.
According to investigators, after his escape from jail, Michael Rigby fled to his grandmother's house, which is located a few miles away, and she provided him with food and clothing.
The sheriff's office estimated that Michael Rigby may have had six hours before they were notified of his escape.
Michael Rigby (left), Brian Rigney (center) and Regina Ralph (right).
Ralph then contacted her son, Brian Rigby, who gave Michael Rigby money and a car to get away, deputies said.
"Anyone who assists with helping him escape needs to be responsible for their actions," said Twis Lizasuain, spokeswoman for the Osceola County Sheriff's Office.
Investigators said Michael Rigby may have fled the state with his girlfriend. Deputies said they may be driving a red four-door Mitsubishi Mirage with black rims, tinted windows and a possible Tennessee tag of #4H1 5251.
The county's corrections chief, Greg Futch, apologized for the escape, but said he had no explanation for how it happened.
Rigby was described as a black man about 5 feet 11 inches tall and 170 pounds.
Upon hearing the news of Ralph's arrest, a neighbor told Local 6 News that she's scared.
"I fear for my life and my grandson," said a woman who did not want to be identified. "Who wouldn't?"
Brian Rigby and Ralph are being held at the Osceola County Jail on no bond.
Anyone with information about Rigby's whereabouts is urged to call the Osceola County Sheriff's Office at 407-348-2222 or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.
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