A manhunt is underway following the escape of two individuals from an open prison, one of whom is a convicted murderer. Avon and Somerset Police recently released new CCTV images of Matthew Armstrong, aged 35, and Daniel Washbourne, aged 40, who absconded from HMP Leyhill on New Year’s Day. The pair fled the prison between 5pm and 8pm on the same day.
Armstrong, who has ties to Warwickshire, was convicted of a murder that occurred in the county during a robbery in the late 2000s. Staff at HMP Leyhill reported the absconders, leading Avon and Somerset Police officers to conduct investigations at the prison.
Detectives are currently examining several reported sightings received in recent days. Further CCTV inquiries have been conducted to track the movements of Armstrong and Washbourne. One such report indicated that two men matching their description were seen in Ashley Road, Bristol, around 10.35am on a specific date.
Additionally, on a different date at approximately 9.35am, CCTV footage captured a man walking along Filton Road and Gloucester Road North in Filton. The individual was wearing a burgundy coat similar to the one worn by Armstrong upon leaving HMP Leyhill. Police believe he continued walking along the same road and was later spotted in the Patchway area.
Authorities suspect that the absconders may have attempted to travel outside of Avon and Somerset to avoid detection, prompting collaboration with other police forces across the country. Armstrong is described as white, around 5ft 9ins, with ginger hair and connections to Warwickshire. Washbourne is described as white, about 5ft 6ins, slim, with brown hair, clean-shaven, and linked to Herefordshire.
Efforts have been made to trace their potential movements, including national police alerts, address checks, and intelligence gathering. Aaron Thomas, aged 39, was arrested by Avon and Somerset Police in Bristol on a specific afternoon and charged with escaping lawful custody. He appeared in court and was remanded in custody pending further proceedings.
Avon and Somerset Police urge the public to report any sightings of Armstrong or Washbourne by calling emergency services and providing the reference number. Information on the absconders can also be shared with law enforcement via a designated contact number.