Police in Merseyside have launched an urgent manhunt after a 22-year-old prisoner escaped from a custody van outside Liverpool Magistrates Court. Stephen Grzyb, from the West Derby/Dovecot area of the city, was being transported from Belle Vale custody suite to the court when he fled the vehicle.
Merseyside Police said the escape happened when the van arrived at the court building. Officers immediately began searching the surrounding area and have asked the public for help in tracing Grzyb. The force said anyone who sees him should call 999 without delay.
A photograph of Grzyb has been issued by Merseyside Police to support the appeal. The undated handout photo shows the 22-year-old and has been widely circulated as officers continue their search.
Grzyb had been held at Belle Vale custody suite before the journey to Liverpool Magistrates Court. Police have said he is from the West Derby and Dovecot areas of the city. Those neighbourhoods have been highlighted in the appeal, with officers paying close attention to any possible links there.
The circumstances of the escape have not yet been explained. Police have not disclosed how Grzyb was able to get out of the van, and no further details have been given about the vehicle or the exact moment of escape. Officers are continuing to piece together what happened, and it may be some time before the full picture is clear.
Custody suites such as the one at Belle Vale are used to hold people who are in police detention while they are prepared for appearances before magistrates. The transfer of a prisoner to court is normally carried out under secure conditions, with officers responsible for the person's custody throughout the journey. The escape happened at the very end of that journey, when the van had arrived outside the court building.
The manhunt remains ongoing, and there has been no confirmation that Grzyb has been found. Police have not announced any arrests in connection with the escape, and officers have again urged anyone with information to come forward. The public is being asked to remain alert, particularly in the Liverpool area, while the search continues.
Anyone who sees Stephen Grzyb, or who has any information about his whereabouts, is asked to contact Merseyside Police immediately on 999. Police have stressed that sightings should be reported on the emergency number so that officers can respond as quickly as possible. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should not hesitate to call.
