UPDATE: A convicted murderer is on the run after escaping from an open prison near Bristol. Matthew Armstrong, 35, fled HMP Leyhill along with Daniel Washbourne, 40, between 5 PM and 8 PM on January 1, 2026. Both men have evaded capture since New Year’s Day, prompting an urgent police manhunt.
Authorities believe Armstrong and Washbourne could pose a significant risk to the public. Police have confirmed they are not originally from Avon and Somerset and have links to various regions across the UK. The public is strongly advised not to approach either individual.
Armstrong was convicted of murder during a robbery in Warwickshire in the late 2000s. He is described as white, approximately 5 feet 9 inches, with ginger hair and scars on his forehead. When last seen, he was wearing a burgundy/orange coat, a grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue on the side, and black boots.
Washbourne is described as white, around 5 feet 6 inches, slim, with brown hair and clean-shaven. He was last spotted in a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, a blue hat, and black trainers. Police noted that Washbourne has a history of violent offenses.
“Two prisoners have absconded from HMP Leyhill and we want to hear from anyone who has information around their whereabouts,”
said a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police.
Staff at HMP Leyhill reported the escape to authorities shortly after it occurred. Police officers began their investigation at approximately 9:45 PM that same evening. Since then, searches have been conducted at locations associated with the fugitives, but no leads have been successful.
Police have released CCTV footage of both men from the day they absconded, intensifying efforts to locate them. Investigators are urging anyone who sees the pair to contact them immediately by calling 999 and quoting reference number 5226000700.
For those with information but who wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be contacted at 0800 555 111 or via their website. Police assure that anonymity will be maintained, and there is no requirement to attend court.
This developing situation has raised serious concerns among local communities. As the manhunt continues, the urgency for public awareness is critical. Stay tuned for further updates as police work diligently to apprehend these escaped convicts.
