Manhunt Underway for Escaped Prisoner in Lancashire

Authorities urge public to avoid approaching fugitive as extensive search operations commence.

A manhunt is currently in progress in Lancashire following the escape of a prisoner, Jamie Cooper, age 33, from a transport vehicle on Wednesday morning.

Cooper overpowered officers and fled while being transported to Lancaster Magistrates' Court.

The incident was reported around 8:54 AM on the M55 motorway near junction two at Catforth.

Cooper is described as being 5 feet 7 inches tall, of medium build, with short cropped hair.

At the time of his escape, he was believed to be wearing a blue coat, blue jeans, and black trainers.

Authorities suggest that Cooper faked a medical emergency to prompt the transport van to pull over, providing him the opportunity to overpower the guards and escape.

Lancashire Police confirmed that no injuries occurred during the escape to officers or members of the public.

In response to the incident, a police spokeswoman reassured the community that such incidents are very rare in the area.

The police have launched an extensive search operation, with an increased presence of officers in the vicinity as part of their inquiries.

The police statement emphasized the importance of community safety, encouraging anyone who sees Cooper to refrain from approaching him and to contact emergency services by calling 999.

Cooper has known connections to Blackpool and Bolton.

For those with additional information, the police have provided a contact number, 101, referencing log number 0237 of March 19.