Murderer among two prisoners at large after absconding on New Year’s Day
Two prisoners are being hunted by police after absconding from jail on New Year’s Day.
Avon and Somerset Police are searching for Matthew Armstrong and Daniel Washbourne, who both have a history of violent offences, with Armstrong convicted of murder.
A third prisoner, suspected of having absconded at the same time, was arrested in Bristol today.
The men fled from HMP Leyhill in South Gloucestershire between 5pm and 8pm on 1 January.
Police have warned anyone who may spot the prisoners to stay away from them and call 999.
Armstrong, 35, and who has known links to Warwickshire, has been described as white, about 5ft 9ins, with ginger hair and scars on his forehead.
He was last seen wearing a burgundy/orange coat, grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue on the side, and black boots.
Armstrong was convicted in the late 2000s of a murder that occurred during a robbery in Warwickshire.
Washbourne, 40, and who has known links to Herefordshire, has been described as white, about 5ft 6ins, slim, with brown hair and clean shaven.
He was last seen wearing a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, blue hat and black trainers.
He has previous convictions for violence and false imprisonment.
Avon and Somerset Police said they were informed about the absconders on Thursday evening as they fled.
The force has shared CCTV footage of what the absconders wore on the day they escaped, as it appealed to the public for information.
