More than 170 inmates escape Haiti jail

More than 170 inmates have escaped a jail in Haiti following a mass break out.

One prison guard was killed in the incident, which took place in Arcahaie jail around 45 kilometres north of the capital Port-au-Prince.

A prisoner also died after falling from a wall. He apparently hit his head during the panicked escape.

A massive manhunt has been launched for the fugitives and check points set up near the prison.

Authorities in Haiti say the inmates attacked prison guards, stealing guns, while being released from their cells to bathe. Most fled barefoot.

Nearly a dozen escapees have so far been detained, but scores are thought to remain on the run.