A major police operation is underway across Ayrshire after a Scottish prisoner failed to return to jail following an authorised day out. James Fitzpatrick, 36, is the subject of an urgent manhunt after being reported missing from HMP Castle Huntly.
Extensive Police Search Underway
James Fitzpatrick was reported missing to Police Scotland on Tuesday, 30 December 2025. The alarm was raised after he did not return to the prison from an approved visit. Officers are now conducting what they describe as "extensive enquiries" and searches across the region to locate him.
Fitzpatrick, who has known links to the Ayrshire area, was last seen in Irvine town centre at around 11.20am on Monday, 29 December. Investigators believe he may have boarded a bus travelling towards the coastal town of Ardrossan.
Public Urged Not to Approach
Police have issued a clear warning to members of the public. Anyone who sees Fitzpatrick is advised not to approach him but to contact the authorities immediately. A spokesperson for Police Scotland emphasised the importance of this directive while appealing for information.
The absconder is described as white, approximately 5ft 8in tall, with a stocky build and short brown hair. When last seen, he was wearing distinctive clothing: a black Nike tracksuit with white stripes down the arms and legs. He was also carrying two bags—a yellow JD Sports carrier bag and a black holdall.
How to Report Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could help trace James Fitzpatrick to come forward. The public can contact police directly by calling 999 and quoting reference number 2717 of Monday, 29 December.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached on 0800 555 111. All lines of enquiry are being pursued as the search intensifies for the inmate, who was serving his sentence at the open prison HMP Castle Huntly in Dundee before his disappearance.
