Details of the Escape
Skylar Meade’s escape unfolded in the early hours of March 20, when he was taken to Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center for treatment of self-inflicted injuries. As corrections officers prepared to transport him back to prison around 2 a.m., an accomplice, Nicholas Umphenour, opened fire outside the hospital.
Attack on Officers
Prosecutors allege that Umphenour shot two corrections officers during the escape attempt. A third officer was mistakenly shot and injured by a fellow officer who believed him to be the shooter. All three officers survived their injuries.
Flight and Capture
After the attack, Meade and Umphenour fled, driving for several hours to north-central Idaho before heading back south. They were apprehended approximately 36 hours after the incident.
Background and Charges
Skylar Meade, At the time of his escape, the 31-year-old was serving a 20-year sentence for shooting at a sheriff’s sergeant during a high-speed chase. Nicholas Umphenour, Released in January after serving time for grand theft and unlawful possession of a weapon, Umphenour now faces multiple felony charges, including three counts of aggravated battery on law enforcement officers and aiding and abetting escape. He stood silent on these charges in May, leading the judge to enter a not guilty plea on his behalf. His trial is set for October.
Additional Charges
Both Meade and Umphenour were indicted in June on murder charges related to the death of 83-year-old James Mauney of Juliaetta, Idaho. Mauney’s remains were found near Leland, Idaho, and state police are investigating another potential related death in the area.
Sentencing and Future Trials
Meade’s sentencing is scheduled for Friday morning before 4th District Judge Nancy Baskin. With his guilty plea and the sentencing enhancement for being a persistent violator and causing bodily injury, Meade faces the possibility of life in prison. Meanwhile, Umphenour’s trial on the charges related to the hospital attack is set to commence in October.
