Killer hunted after going on run from jail

Published on Saturday 17 May 2008 10:33

POLICE were today hunting a convicted killer who remains at large after going on the run from an open prison.

John Bowden, 51, failed to return to Noranside jail in Angus on Thursday.

Police said Bowden, who was last seen in the nearby town of Forfar, was being tested in "open conditions" when he absconded.

Bowden, originally from south London, was given a life sentence in 1982 at the Old Bailey after being convicted of murdering park-keeper Donald Ryan.

Tayside Police are examining CCTV footage and working with British Transport Police and other forces in a bid to trace him. He was last seen near the Tesco store in Castle Street, Forfar.

A Scottish Prison Service spokesman said the public should not approach Bowden.

He added: "John Bowden is unlawfully at large. If anyone is aware of his whereabouts they should contact the police."

Bowden, who was due to be considered for parole later this month, was originally jailed in England after he was ordered to serve a minimum of 25 years in prison for the murder of Mr Ryan.

With two accomplices, Bowden lured Mr Ryan to a flat to rob him, them mutilated him while he was still alive using a handsaw, electric carving knife and a machete. Parts of Mr Ryan's body were hidden on waste ground.