Manhunt underway for escaped prisoner on M55 motorway

Police are searching for a man who escaped from a prison van on the M55 motorway this morning. The suspect, Jamie Cooper, is 33 years old and from Blackpool. He is about 5 feet 7 inches tall, has a medium build, and short, cropped hair. When he escaped, he was wearing a blue coat, jeans, and black trainers. The escape happened at 8:54 AM while the van was transporting prisoners to Lancaster Magistrates Court. Police have warned the public not to approach Cooper and to call 999 if they see him. He is known to have connections to both Blackpool and Bolton. Authorities have increased police presence in the area to conduct searches and reassure the public. A police spokesperson stated that incidents like this are rare in Lancashire and emphasized their seriousness in handling the situation. They encouraged anyone with information to contact them, referring to log 0237 of March 19.