Authorities search for inmate accused of stealing van

HOUSTON, Mo. (AP) -- Authorities are searching for a Missouri inmate who is accused of overpowering a guard and stealing a transport van after being sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Cody Fulkerson says 33-year-old Christopher Hunt escaped Monday morning while being transported in the Texas County van. The unarmed guard was the only person aboard and wasn't hurt.

The escape happened shortly after Hunt was sentenced in Phelps County for two counts of tampering with a motor vehicle. Hunt's jail uniform was found in an abandoned Phelps County home near where the van was ditched.

Fulkerson says Hunt should be considered dangerous. Officials at the Texas County jail also are investigating a Monday night fire that forced one wing of inmates to be moved to a recreation area.