BREAKING: A convicted murderer is on the loose following a dramatic escape from HMP Leyhill in South Gloucestershire on New Year’s Day. Matthew Armstrong, 35, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, fled the open prison between 5pm and 8pm and have evaded authorities ever since.
Police confirm that Armstrong, who has a violent past linked to a robbery-murder in Warwickshire, is considered dangerous. He is described as a white male, around 5ft 9in tall, with ginger hair and scars on his forehead. At the time of his escape, he was wearing a burgundy/orange coat, a grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue accents, and black boots.
Washbourne, also a fugitive, is described as a white male, approximately 5ft 6in, slim, with brown hair and clean-shaven. He was last seen in a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, a blue hat, and black trainers. Washbourne has previous convictions for violent offenses, including false imprisonment.
Authorities are urging the public not to approach either man. A third individual, suspected of escaping at the same time, was captured earlier today in Bristol.
Police have released CCTV footage of Armstrong and Washbourne from the day of their escape, intensifying the search efforts. An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson stated, “
Two prisoners have absconded from HMP Leyhill, and we want to hear from anyone who has information about their whereabouts.
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Investigators have checked multiple locations linked to the fugitives but have yet to locate them. The police are actively pursuing intelligence to trace their movements.
Anyone who sees either man is urged to call 999 immediately and reference number 5226000700. For other information, the public can reach out via 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555111.
This urgent manhunt has significant implications for public safety as the search continues. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
