This undated photo provided by the Pennsylvania State Police shows what they say is an AK-47-style assault rifle that they have recovered from the woods in the manhunt for Eric Frein, who allegedly opened fire in a deadly ambush at a Pennsylvania state police barracks on Sept. 12.CANADENSIS, Pa. – Nine days after a gunman opened fire in a deadly ambush at a Pennsylvania state police barracks, authorities said Sunday they have recovered one of the weapons he was carrying and believe they are hot on his trail as he travels on foot through rugged forests.
Investigators said they believe the suspect they describe as a self-taught survivalist had been planning a confrontation with law enforcement for months, if not years.
Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens revealed a few more details about the manhunt for Eric Frein, saying trackers have discovered items he hid or abandoned in the woods — including an AK-47 assault rifle and ammunition they believe he had been carrying while on the run.
“We are pushing him hard, he is no longer safe and I am confident that he will be apprehended,” Bivens said.
Authorities did not yet know if the weapon had been used in the ambush, he said.