In a startling development from the Atlanta area, authorities have revealed that three inmates, deemed potentially armed and dangerous, have made a daring escape from a local jail. This incident has sparked an immediate and intense manhunt in the region.

The escape took place early Monday morning at the DeKalb County Jail, situated in Decatur, a northeastern suburb of Atlanta. The individuals at the center of this dramatic breakout were incarcerated on serious felony charges, including murder, arson, and armed robbery.

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office quickly took to social media to alert the public about the fugitives, urging extreme caution. “These individuals are considered dangerous, and the public is strongly advised not to approach them,” the message read.

The discovery of the escape occurred during a routine security check, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Unit, supported by uniformed patrol units, is now engaged in an exhaustive search to recapture the escapees.

In an official statement, Sheriff Melody M. Maddox emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “We are treating this breach with the utmost urgency and are committed to swiftly returning these individuals to custody,” she assured.

“We take this breach very seriously and are working diligently to ensure these individuals are safely returned to custody as quickly as possible,” Sheriff Melody M. Maddox said in a statement.

The fugitives have been identified as 24-year-old Stevenson Charles, 31-year-old Yusuf Minor and 25-year-old Naod Yohannes.

According to the U.S. Marshals, Charles is considered “extremely dangerous” and was serving a life sentence at the time of his escape, Fox 5 Atlanta reported. 

A manhunt is underway after three inmates escaped from DeKalb County Jail early Monday. (DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)

Local authorities said Charles had been charged with murder and armed robbery. He has also been accused of child rape, specifically sodomy on a person less than 10 years old, kidnapping, carjacking, aggravated assault, weapons violations and probation violations, Fox 5 reported, citing U.S. Marshals.

He is described as 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing approximately 200 pounds. According to U.S. Marshals, he has close ties to both Atlanta and Miami, the local station said.

Authorities urge residents to avoid approaching the possibly armed fugitives. (DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)

The Sheriff’s Office added that Minor was charged with two counts of armed robbery and two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Yohannes was reportedly charged with simple assault, arson and unlawful acts of violence in a penal institution.

Anyone with information regarding their whereabouts is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Tip Line at 404-298-8200.

Fox News Digital reached out to U.S. Marshals for more information.