Prisoner, 31, on the run after ‘escaping from officers’ while being treated at hospital – as cops launch major search

A PRISONER is on the run after escaping from officers while being treated at hospital.

Jonathan Windsor, 31, "escaped lawful custody" while being "escorted by prison staff" following treatment at Salford Royal Hospital today.

Greater Manchester Police has urged the public not to approach him and report any sightings immediately.

Residents near the hospital were told by officers that Windsor was wearing a grey top and was in handcuffs.

A major manhunt is now underway after the HMP Forest Bank prisoner fled the hospital on Stott Lane.

He is known to have links across the north west and south Manchester.

A large police presence has been spotted behind the Salford Royal Hospital site this evening.

Meanwhile a helicopter has been circling over the city this afternoon.

One local, who lives near the hospital, said: "There have been police everywhere and I was told a prisoner has escaped and is on the run."

Another added: "We hear things all the time with the hospital being on the doorstep and the motorway nearby.

"It was only when I went outside at about 2.45pm and a neighbour said the police had spoken to them and asked them if they had seen anything, as a prisoner had escaped wearing a grey top and still in handcuffs.

"There were police cars and and motorbikes everywhere and they were checking all the roads near Wilton Road and then checking the field at De La Salle."

A Salford Police spokesperson said: "Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace Jonathan Windsor (31/10/1992) who is wanted having escaped lawful custody while being escorted by prison staff.

"Windsor is known to have links across the North West, including South Manchester.

"People are urged not to approach Windsor and if anyone sees him, call 0161 856 5049 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting the log number 1687 of 07/10/24."

An HMP Forest Bank spokesperson said: "We are aware of an incident involving an HMP Forest Bank prisoner who was under escort at a local hospital.

"We are working closely with Greater Manchester Police and cannot comment further at this time."