The trial of an inmate accused of escaping custody while out on a day pass begins on Monday.

William Wade Bicknell is facing several charges including kidnapping, unlawful confinement and attempted murder following an incident in 2011.

According to police, Bicknell was on a pass from the Drumheller Correctional Institution when he gained control of the vehicle he was travelling in, holding a correctional worker hostage.

Bicknell was said to make his way to Edmonton on March 11, 2011, collecting firearms and ammunition on the way.

He was arrested 10 days after his escape, following a shootout near Sexsmith.

Bicknell was serving time for the murder of B.C. resident Angela Steer, who was beaten to death with a bat in 2001.