The two guards names are not being released. I spoke with officials from the State Correctional Facility in Houtzdale where the guards were employed. They tell me an investigation was completed and the guards decided to resign and are careful to say they were not fired.

On November 16th convicted murderer, Christopher Gerlach was at Altoona Hospital for a medical procedure. Gerlach was using a hospital bathroom when he made his break through a second door. He led police on a three-hour manhunt and police say during that time broke into several homes, tying up two women and stole a vehicle. Schools in Altoona were on lockdown and dozens of police officers searched the area. Gerlach was later found in Antis Township.

At the time of the escape it was speculated Gerlach may have had an accomplice who helped him, but the results of the investigation are not being made public at this time.

The two guards had been suspended without pay since the incident.

Rich Klindworth, Channel 6 News.