Police have launched a major manhunt for two dangerous prisoners, one a convicted murderer, who absconded from a South Gloucestershire prison on New Year's Day. The inmates remain at large, prompting a public appeal for information from Avon and Somerset Constabulary.
Details of the Escape and the Fugitives
Matthew Armstrong, 35, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, are believed to have left HMP Leyhill between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday, 1 January 2026. The prison reported the men missing that evening, with officers arriving on site to begin an investigation at approximately 9.45pm. A third inmate suspected of absconding at the same time was arrested in Bristol on Saturday.
Armstrong was convicted in 2009 for a murder committed during a robbery in Warwickshire. Washbourne has previous convictions for offences of violence against a person and false imprisonment. Authorities stress that the pair are not from the local Avon and Somerset area and have links to various parts of the country.
Police Descriptions and Public Warning
Avon and Somerset Police have released detailed descriptions and CCTV footage of the men's clothing from the day they escaped.
Matthew Armstrong is described as a white male, around 5 feet 9 inches tall, with ginger hair and scars on his forehead. He was last seen wearing a burgundy or orange coat, a grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue on the side, and black boots. He has known links to Warwickshire.
Daniel Washbourne is described as a white male, about 5 feet 6 inches tall, with brown hair and clean-shaven. He was last seen wearing a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, a blue hat, and black trainers. He has known links to Herefordshire.
The force has issued a stern warning to the public not to approach either man if they are seen. Instead, anyone with information should call 999 immediately, quoting reference number 5226000700.
Ongoing Police Investigation
In their statement, Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed that urgent actions are underway. "Urgent actions have already been completed, including circulating the men as wanted via national police systems," a spokesperson said.
The investigation involves extensive intelligence work to trace the men's movements. Officers have conducted address checks outside their force area, but these have so far proved negative. The search continues as police work to apprehend the two fugitives.
