Manhunt launched for convicted killer on the run from Scots jail as public warned ‘do not approach’

AN URGENT manhunt has been launched by police after a convicted killer escaped from a Scottish jail.

Raymond McCourt, 59, is on the run from HMP Castle Huntly, near Dundee.

Police ScotlandA manhunt has been launched after a convicted killer escaped from prison[/caption] He is described as being 6ft 2in tall, stocky build with short grey hair and beard Raymond McCourt is on the run from HMP Castle Huntly, near DundeeMichael Schofield - The Sun Glasgow

He was reported missing to police at around 5.30pm yesterday evening.

Police believe McCourt has connections to Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The public are being asked not to approach him.

McCourt was jailed for life back in 1993 for murdering a newsagent.

He shot Khalid Mahmood in the head, before attempting to rob a nearby bakery at the age of 27.

McCourt also shot local woman Moira Rooney and PC Brian Williams, who was giving chase as the gunman fled the scene.

In 2015, he was released from prison on licence.

But was soon sent back the same year after he was “struggling to cope” with life outside prison.

He is described as being 6ft 2in tall, stocky build with short grey hair and beard and has reduced mobility.

He was last known to be wearing a long black trench coat, grey dress trousers, a grey waistcoat, blue shirt with a red and white tie and brown shoes.

Cops are appealing for any information that could help to trace the prisoner.

Any sightings or information can be passed to officers via 101, quoting reference 2857 of 22 April, 2025.

Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.