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On New Year’s Day, two inmates escaped from HMP Leyhill, an open prison in South Gloucestershire, prompting a police manhunt. Among the absconders is Matthew Armstrong, who was convicted of murder in 2009, and Daniel Washbourne, who has a history of violent offenses. Avon and Somerset Police reported that the pair left the prison sometime between 5 pm and 8 pm GMT on 1 January, sparking concerns across the region.
Matthew Armstrong was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 19 years for the 2008 killing of Paul Smith, a 54-year-old grandfather. Mr Smith was attacked during a robbery in Rugby town center, where Armstrong, then 18, and a 14-year-old accomplice assaulted him with a brick before stealing his phone and wallet. Mr Smith was left severely injured on the pavement, an incident that shocked the local community.
Authorities have shared CCTV images capturing both men’s appearances and clothing from the day of their escape. Armstrong, now 35, stands about 5 feet 9 inches tall with ginger hair and distinctive forehead scars. He was last seen wearing a burgundy or orange coat, grey cap, grey tracksuit bottoms with blue stripes, and black boots. Washbourne, 40, is described as slim, around 5 feet 6 inches tall, with brown hair and no facial hair. He was seen wearing a cream fleece, blue tracksuit bottoms, a blue hat, and black trainers. Police note Washbourne has prior convictions including violence and false imprisonment and is believed to have ties to Herefordshire, while Armstrong is linked to Warwickshire.
Following the escape, a third individual suspected of absconding at the same time was apprehended in Bristol. The Ministry of Justice explains that open prisons like HMP Leyhill typically have low security measures to allow eligible inmates to engage in work, education, or resettlement activities outside the facility. Since learning about the escape Thursday evening, police have conducted extensive inquiries, including circulating descriptions of the men via national systems. A Prison Service spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of absconding, saying, “Absconding is a serious criminal offence, and any prisoner who commits this crime could face longer behind bars.” They added that police efforts to recapture Armstrong and Washbourne continue, urging the public to report any sightings immediately
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