Full Breakdown
Manhunt for Absconded Murderers in Bristol
1/7/2026, 12:10:31 AM
Overview of the Incident
Matthew Armstrong, 35, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, are the subjects of an ongoing manhunt after they absconded from HMP Leyhill, South Gloucestershire, on January 1, 2023. The two men were reported missing between 17:00 and 20:00 on New Year's Day, prompting Avon and Somerset Police to initiate urgent actions, including flagging them as wanted through national police systems.
Recent Sightings and Police Response
CCTV footage released by the police shows a man resembling Armstrong walking in Bristol on January 3 and 4. The footage captures him and Washbourne on Ashley Road and Filton Road, with Armstrong wearing a burgundy coat similar to the one he had on when he left prison. Police have indicated that there have been multiple reported sightings of the two men, although they believe there is a "distinct possibility" that they have left the Bristol area.
In response to their escape, police have been coordinating with other law enforcement agencies across the country to locate the absconded prisoners. They have also reached out to the victims and families of both men to inform them of the situation as sensitively as possible.
Background of the Individuals
Matthew Armstrong was sentenced in 2009 for the murder of 54-year-old Paul Smith in Rugby town center, receiving a minimum term of 19 years. His accomplice, Daniel Washbourne, has a history of violent offenses, including previous convictions for violence against a person and false imprisonment. Neither man is known to have connections to the Bristol area, which complicates the search efforts.
Criticism & Opposition
While police have taken steps to manage the situation, there are concerns regarding the security measures at HMP Leyhill that allowed for the escape of these convicted individuals. Critics have raised questions about the adequacy of monitoring and the protocols in place for managing inmates classified as high-risk.
Official Statements & Responses
Avon and Somerset Police stated that they are actively pursuing all leads in the investigation and are following up on various lines of inquiry. They emphasized the importance of public assistance in locating the absconded prisoners.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is currently no confirmation on whether Armstrong and Washbourne have left the Bristol area, despite police speculation. The exact timeline of their movements post-escape remains unclear, as does the full extent of their criminal history beyond what has been reported.
Verbatim Quotes
“urgent actions” have been completed after they were reported to have absconded. — Avon and Somerset Police
“Neither Armstrong nor Washbourne are known to have any connection to the wider Bristol area, and police said they were working with other police forces across the country to help trace them.” — Avon and Somerset Police
