Man who escaped jail in South Lake Tahoe still on the loose

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - An inmate in the El Dorado County Jail in South Lake Tahoe escaped Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. while doing supervised inmate duties outside of the jail.

Ruben Zavala Garcia, 38, was in custody for multiple criminal charges to include domestic violence, violation of restraining order, false imprisonment, burglary, and a violation of probation. He had been arrested on July 4, 2021, and was still in custody awaiting his next court appearance next week. He had not been convicted or sentenced for his charges.

The El Dorado County Sheriff's Office (EDSO) deputies, detectives, and canines were involved in the search along with officers from the South Lake Tahoe Police Department (SLTPD), and helicopter support.

EDSO immediately responded to Garcia’s escape by investigating and contacting persons and locations associated with Garcia. They contacted the victim in Garcia’s criminal case and the victim is aware of the incident.

Garcia was not located during the all-night search.

EDSO is actively and aggressively working this case and there is an active Ramey Warrant for the arrest of Garcia for PC 4532 (B)(1) stemming from his escape. Garcia is 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighs approximately 170 pounds, and has tattooed forearms. He was last seen wearing a khaki-colored jail-issued uniform with a short-sleeved shirt and long pants. If anyone knows the whereabouts of Garcia or has any information that may assist EDSO with this investigation, please contact EDSO dispatch at 530-621-6600.