Two inmates who absconded from an open prison on New Year's Day have been arrested, ending a week-long police manhunt across two counties.
Dual arrests bring manhunt to a close
Matthew Armstrong, 35, a convicted murderer, was arrested near Henley-in-Arden train station in Warwickshire just before midday on Wednesday 7 January 2026. His detention followed a crucial sighting reported by a vigilant member of the public, which was swiftly acted upon by Warwickshire Police.
The second fugitive, Daniel Washbourne, 40, was arrested in Bristol city centre at around 1.30am on the same day. Avon and Somerset Police officers located Washbourne, who was found with pre-existing injuries. He was initially taken to hospital for assessment before being transferred into police custody.
Background of the escaped inmates
Matthew Armstrong was serving a sentence for murder, having been convicted of killing someone during a robbery in Warwickshire back in 2009. Daniel Washbourne had previous convictions for serious offences, including false imprisonment and violence against a person, according to police statements.
Both men had absconded from HMP Leyhill, a Category D open prison in Gloucestershire, on Wednesday 1 January 2026. Their escape triggered a significant multi-force operation to locate them.
Third individual charged in connection with escape
In a related development, a 39-year-old man was arrested in Bristol on Saturday 3 January by Avon and Somerset Police. He has since been charged with the offence of escaping lawful custody.
The individual appeared in court on Monday 5 January and is scheduled to attend Bristol Crown Court next month for further proceedings.
The coordinated efforts of Warwickshire Police and Avon and Somerset Police have now resolved this serious incident, with all escaped individuals accounted for and in custody.
