Authorities in Maine were still searching for a convicted killer who escaped from a state prison late last week, according to recent reports.

As the New York Post reported, 65-year-old Arnold Nash, sentenced to 45 years in prison after he was found guilty of murder in 1992, was set to be released as early as next year.

Instead of waiting, however, police say he escaped from a minimum-security facility in Charleston on Thursday evening. It was not his first reported escape.

Records from other facilities where he had served time of earlier crimes, Nash had been able to escape on two previous occasions.

Police said on Friday that they believed he was still in the general area and cautioned locals against engaging with him, as reported by Fox News.

According to Department of Public Safety spokesman Stephen McCausland, Nash is a “dangerous” convict who could pose a threat to the community.

“He’s a career criminal and residents in the Greater Charleston area need to be aware, be vigilant and take extra precautions,” he said.

At the time of his escape from Mountain View Correctional Facility, police say Nash was dressed in a light blue shirt and jeans.

Those with information about his possible whereabouts are asked to contact local authorities.

Nash was found guilty of murdering his neighbor, 58-year-old disabled veteran Wilfred Gibeault, during a botched robbery. Prosecutors said he planned to rob the victim of his monthly veterans benefits payment totaling $1,400.

[Featured image: Arnold Nash, Maine Department of Corrections]