Traffic through the Vicksburg National Military Park did not cease on Wednesday even though authorities were alerted to a possible sighting of an escaped prisoner near the national landmark.

“We looked at our various options and decided not to close it (VNMP) down,” said Bill Justice, the superintendent of the VNMP.

It was thought Rafael McCloud, who was charged in the June 28 abduction and murder of 69-year-old Sharen Wilson, may have been near the park around the Fort Hill area.

McCloud escaped from the Warren County Jail early Wednesday morning after he attacked a jail guard.

Justice said the Vicksburg Police Department and the Warren County Sherriff’s Office were doing a good job of quarantining the area where they thought the suspect had been sited.

“We felt safe at all times with the police on-site,” Justice said.

Upon entering the VNMP, Justice said visitors were cautioned not to leave their doors unlocked while touring the park.

“We did not get into any details, we just told them something was going on,” he said.

Park employees were also informed of the possible sighting and were instructed to be cautious.

Justice said the VNMP has a good relationship with the VPD and Sheriff’s Office.

“The Sheriff’s Office and Vicksburg Police Department have jurisdiction with the park and having them here made it possible to expand our law enforcement service.”

Justice was not sure how long the local authorities would be monitoring the VNMP, but said they would have the park’s full cooperation.

Vehicles can access the VNMP at two locations. The main entrance is located at 3201 Clay St., and there is an entrance at the top of Fort Hill Drive, which is accessible from Cherry Street.

On Saturday, the 37^th annual Vicksburg Run Thru History 10K road race, 5K walk, and 1-mile fun run is scheduled to be held at the VNMP.