Police Scotland have launched an extensive manhunt for a prisoner who failed to return to jail after an authorised outing. The public are being warned not to approach the man, who was last seen in an Ayrshire town.
Details of the Disappearance
James Fitzpatrick, aged 36, was reported missing to the authorities on Tuesday, 30 December 2025. He had been on an approved visit from HMP Castle Huntly but did not return as required. His disappearance triggered an immediate police response.
Fitzpatrick was last captured on CCTV in Irvine town centre at around 11.20am on Monday, 29 December. Investigators believe he may have subsequently boarded a bus travelling in the direction of Ardrossan. He is known to have connections across the Ayrshire region, where officers are concentrating their enquiries.
Appearance and Public Appeal
The missing prisoner is described as follows:
- White male, 36 years old.
- Approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with a stocky build.
- Has short brown hair.
When last seen, he was wearing a distinctive black Nike tracksuit with white stripes down the arms and legs. He was also carrying two bags: a yellow JD Sports carrier bag and a black holdall.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland stated: "Extensive enquiries and searches are ongoing to trace him. Members of the public are advised not to approach him if they see him, but to contact police immediately."
How to Report Information
Anyone with information on James Fitzpatrick's whereabouts is urged to contact the police without delay. You should call 999 and quote the reference number 2717 of Monday, 29 December.
Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
