Authorities have launched a large-scale search for an escaped prisoner who failed to return to prison after an approved outing.
James Fitzpatrick, 36, went missing on Tuesday, December 30, triggering an extensive manhunt by law enforcement. The public has been advised not to approach him.
Fitzpatrick was last spotted in Irvine town center, Scotland, at around 11:20 am the previous day. It is believed that he boarded a bus headed towards Ardrossan.
Police are carrying out thorough investigations to locate the missing prisoner, who has connections to Ayrshire, as per the Daily Record. Fitzpatrick was serving time in HMP Castle Huntly but did not return to his cell following an authorized visit. He is described as a white male, approximately 5ft 8in tall, with a sturdy build and short brown hair.
At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a black Nike tracksuit with white stripes on the arms and legs, and carrying a yellow JD Sports bag and a black holdall.
Authorities are urging anyone with information on Fitzpatrick’s whereabouts to come forward.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland stated: “Police Scotland is seeking any information that could lead to locating James Fitzpatrick. He was reported missing on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, after failing to return to HMP Castle Huntly from an approved visit.
“James, 36, has ties to the Ayrshire region. Extensive efforts and searches are underway to find him. He is described as a white male, around 5ft 8in tall, sturdy build, with short brown hair.
“When last seen, he was dressed in a black Nike tracksuit with white stripes on the arms and legs, and was carrying a yellow JD Sports bag and a black holdall. He was last seen in Irvine town center around 11:20 am on Monday, December 29, and may have boarded a bus to Ardrossan.
“The public is advised not to approach him but to contact the authorities. Anyone with information is urged to call 999, quoting reference 2717 of Monday, December 29. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 for anonymous reporting.”
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