Police urge ‘don’t approach’ as two prisoners ‘absconds’ from jail | UK | News

Two inmates have escaped from a prison in England, police said. Avon and Somerset Police issued an urgent appeal on January 3 as they attempted to track down two men who allegedly left a South Gloucestershire prison.

Matthew Armstrong, 35, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, left HMP Leyhill between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday, January 1. Police have now issued a public information appeal, urging the public to call 999 immediately if they see the prisoners. Officers released photographs of Armstrong and Washbourne, adding that a third man suspected of running away at the same time was arrested in Bristol earlier today (Saturday, January 3).

Armstrong, who has ties to Warwickshire, was convicted of a murder that occurred during a robbery in the late 2000s. He is described as white, male, approximately 6 feet tall, with red hair and scars on his forehead. He was last seen wearing a burgundy/orange coat, gray hat, gray sweatpants with blue on the sides and black boots.

Meanwhile, Washbourne has a previous record of violent crimes against persons and false imprisonment. Connections with Herefordshire are known.

Police described the 40-year-old man as white, male, approximately 6 feet tall, slim, with brown hair and clean shaven. He was last seen wearing a cream fleece, blue sweatpants, a blue hat and black sneakers.

As part of their appeal, police released CCTV footage of the men from New Year’s Day. Police added that “immediate actions” were being taken to find them, including intelligence work to track their movements.

Avon and Somerset Police say: “Address checks have also been carried out and have so far been negative. As a precaution, we advise members of the public who see the two men not to approach them.

“If you see any of the men pictured please call 999 immediately and quote reference number 5226000700. Alternatively, if you have information that could assist our investigations please call 101.”