Police have launched a major manhunt after two dangerous prisoners, one a convicted murderer, absconded from a jail in South Gloucestershire on New Year's Day.
Details of the escaped prisoners
Matthew Armstrong, 35, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, went missing from HMP Leyhill some time between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Both men have significant convictions for violent offences, prompting an urgent public appeal from Avon and Somerset Police.
Armstrong is a convicted murderer, having been found guilty in the late 2000s for a killing that took place during a robbery in Warwickshire. He is described as a white male, around 5ft 9ins tall, with ginger hair and scars on his head. He was last seen wearing a burgundy and orange coat, grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue on the side, and black boots. He has known links to Warwickshire.
Washbourne is described as white, around 5ft 6ins tall, slim, with brown hair and clean-shaven. He was last seen in a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, a blue hat, and black trainers. Police state he has previous convictions for violence against a person and false imprisonment, with known links to Herefordshire.
Police appeal and public warning
Authorities have issued a stark warning to the public not to approach the men if they are seen. A police spokesperson confirmed that urgent actions are underway, including circulating the men as wanted on national police systems and conducting intelligence work to trace their movements.
"As a precaution, we would advise any members of the public who see the two men to not approach them," the spokesperson said. "If you see either of the men, pictured, please immediately call 999."
Address checks have been carried out in areas outside the force's jurisdiction, but so far these have proved negative. The pair are known to have links to various parts of the country, widening the scope of the search.
Ongoing investigation and next steps
The escape from the open prison in South Gloucestershire has triggered a significant and coordinated police response. The force is urging anyone with information to come forward immediately as the search intensifies.
With both men considered violent and dangerous, the public's assistance is seen as crucial to locating them swiftly and safely. The police continue to follow all available leads in their efforts to recapture the fugitives.
