Police extend search for murder suspect to Spain

Police want to speak to Thomas Dures who recently turned 21

Detectives searching for a man they want to speak to in connection with a murder have extended their search to Spain.

Matthew Daulby, 19, from Liverpool, was stabbed to death in Ormskirk, Lancashire, on 29 July 2023.

Henry Houghton, 19, of Scarisbrick, was jailed for at least 20 years for his murder following a trial at Preston Crown Court.

Lancashire Constabulary said they wanted to speak with Thomas Dures, who recently turned 21, as part of their inquiries. They added Mr Dures has known links to Spain and could be living anywhere in the country.

Police said Thomas Dures has known links to Spain

Neil Keeping, the National Crime Agency's regional manager in Spain, said: "We are actively working with our partners here in Spain to locate Dures, who may be able to assist Lancashire Police detectives with their ongoing investigation."

In August, police announced they were offering a £20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Mr Dures who also has links to Aughton and Liverpool.

The reward is made up of £10,000 from Crimestoppers and £10,000 from Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner's office.

Matthew Daulby died in hospital shortly after the attack

"Thomas Dures has known that my officers have wanted to speak to him for some time and while Matthew's family continue to search for answers about what happened that night," Det Ch Insp Andy Fallows, of Lancashire Police, said.

"While I believe it is high time Dures does the right thing and hands himself in, I still have officers in the UK and our National Crime Agency/ Interpol colleagues searching for him."

Mr Daulby's parents said they were "stuck in limbo" and asked themselves every day "why did this happen?"

They added: "We urge someone out there please, please help our family to locate Thomas Dures."