Police have launched a major manhunt after two inmates, including a man convicted of murder with links to the Midlands, absconded from an open prison on New Year's Day.
Details of the Escape and the Fugitives
Matthew Armstrong, aged 35, and Daniel Washbourne, aged 40, are understood to have left HMP Leyhill in South Gloucestershire at some point between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday, 1 January. A third individual who also escaped at the same time was detained in Bristol on the morning of Saturday, 3 January.
Armstrong, who has connections to Warwickshire, was found guilty of a murder committed during a robbery in the county in the late 2000s. He is described as a white male, around 5ft 9in tall, with ginger hair and facial scarring on his forehead. He was last seen wearing a burgundy or orange coat, a grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue on the sides, and black boots.
Washbourne is described as a white male, approximately 5ft 6in tall, slim, with brown hair and clean-shaven. He was last seen in a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, a blue hat, and black trainers. Police state they understand he has previous convictions for violence and false imprisonment.
Police Appeal and Public Warning
Avon and Somerset Police were notified by the prison on Thursday evening and officers arrived at HMP Leyhill around 9.45pm to begin enquiries. Forces in other parts of the country have checked addresses linked to the pair but have so far been unable to locate them.
The public has been strongly warned not to approach either man. Authorities have released CCTV images of both individuals from the day they went missing in an effort to trace them.
An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "Anyone who sees the two men are urged to please call 999 right away." The reference number to quote is 5226000700.
How to Provide Information
Intelligence work to trace the men is ongoing. The police have provided the following ways for the public to share information:
- Call 999 immediately if you have a live sighting of either man.
- Call 101 with any other information that could assist the investigation.
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via their website. Callers will not have to give their name or appear in court.
