A major police manhunt is underway across the North West and beyond after a convicted violent offender serving a lengthy sentence for attempted murder absconded from an open prison.
Prisoner unlawfully at large
Kieran Cameron, aged 43, was reported missing from HMP Thorn Cross in Warrington at 8.20pm on Tuesday, 6 January 2026. Cheshire Police have launched an urgent public appeal to trace him, warning that he is "unlawfully at large" and should not be approached under any circumstances.
Cameron is currently serving a substantial 23-year prison sentence for a brutal and premeditated attempted murder that occurred in Dorset in 2016. The escape has triggered a significant multi-force search operation.
Details of the violent 2016 offence
The original crime for which Cameron is imprisoned was described by detectives as a vicious, pre-planned knife attack that nearly claimed a young man's life. According to details heard at Portsmouth Crown Court, Cameron and an accomplice, Michael O'Rourke, stabbed their 22-year-old victim from Poole approximately ten times.
The court was told the assault in February 2016 was motivated by gang threats. The pair intended to murder the victim, who was known to them, and frame a rival gang for the killing. The victim sustained serious stab wounds to his stomach, neck, and the back of his head.
Following the conviction, Detective Sergeant Jamie Halford of Bournemouth CID stated the case demonstrated that police and courts would "come down heavily" on such violent knife crime. He praised the members of the public who provided immediate aid and the medical staff at Poole Hospital who treated the victim.
Public urged to assist police search
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Henderson, from the Serious and Organised Crime Unit at Cheshire Police, is leading the appeal. "We are appealing for the help of the public to trace Kieran Cameron," he said. The force has issued a detailed description of the wanted man.
Cameron is described as:
- A white male, around 5 feet 6 inches tall.
- Of medium build.
- With significantly receding hair.
- Possessing a ginger and grey beard.
He is known to have connections in Liverpool, Manchester, and Dorset. Authorities believe he could be attempting to travel to these areas.
Police have issued clear instructions to the public:
- If you see Kieran Cameron, do not approach him.
- Call 999 immediately.
- If you have any other information on his whereabouts, call 101 or visit the Cheshire Police website, quoting reference IML 2247029.
The escape from HMP Thorn Cross, a Category D open prison, raises serious questions about offender management and public safety. The search continues as authorities work to recapture the dangerous fugitive.
