Killer Katrina Epiha on the run in Auckland after escaping custody

A convicted murderer is on the run in Auckland after escaping from Corrections staff at Middlemore Hospital this morning.

Katrina Epiha, 22, was sentenced to life in prison in Christchurch Superior Court last year for stabbing to death a woman at a party in 2017.

Northern Region Corrections Commissioner Lynette Cave says Epiha was being returned to prison from the hospital when she escaped.

The police are asking anyone who knows where Epiha is, or anyone who saw her today, to contact them immediately.

It is considered dangerous and the public has been told not to approach it.

Epiha, who has large and distinctive tattoos on her cheeks, was last seen running towards Gray Ave, Mangere, after fleeing the hospital.

She was last seen in a long-sleeved black T-shirt with a white shirt underneath, gray sweatpants, and light pink sneakers.

Anyone with information can contact the Manukau County Police on 09261 1321 or by calling 111.

During an alcohol-fueled rage, Epiha fatally stabbed 32-year-old mother Alicia Maree Nathan, also known as Robinson, and threatened to kill another woman on an Avonhead property in August 2017.

Epiha, who was 19 years old at the time of the attack, was jailed for at least 10 years as part of a life sentence for murder last year.

Police were informed immediately after Epiha escaped from Corrections staff, Cave said in a statement.

“We have provided them with information to help them locate her. We encourage anyone with information on her whereabouts to contact the Police at 111.

“The inmate is likely to be charged with escaping custody, which can result in a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

“A full operational review of the circumstances of the incident is underway.”