A man who was on his way to a Winnipeg court is missing from police custody.

Pukatawagan RCMP was escorting a 19-year-old to the custody of Manitoba Sherriff, preparing him for a flight to Winnipeg. During this exchange, the handcuffed man fled on foot, escaping into nearby wooded areas. The search in the woods was unsuccessful.

The 19-year-old, Kelly John Castel, has a warrant out for his arrest for being Unlawfully at Large.

"He is described as being 5’10”, 130lbs with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing black sweat pants, a black sweatshirt and a black baseball cap," RCMP say.

Castel is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

Those with information are being asked to contact the Pukatawagan RCMP at (204) 553-2045, call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or submit a secure tip online.