Police extend search for murder suspect to Spain

Detectives have intensified their search for a key suspect in a murder case, extending their efforts to Spain. The focus is on Thomas Dures, a 21-year-old man linked to the tragic stabbing death of 19-year-old Matthew Daulby, who was killed in Ormskirk, Lancashire, on July 29, 2023.

In a separate trial, Henry Houghton, 19, from Scarisbrick, was sentenced to a minimum of 20 years for Daulby’s murder after being found guilty at Preston Crown Court. Following the conviction, Lancashire Constabulary announced that they wish to speak with Dures as part of their ongoing investigation.

Detectives have revealed that Dures has established connections to Spain, leading to fears that he may be residing anywhere in the country. Neil Keeping, the National Crime Agency’s regional manager in Spain, stated, “We are actively collaborating with our partners in Spain to locate Dures, who may have information crucial to the Lancashire Police’s investigation.”

In a bid to expedite the search, police previously announced a £20,000 reward for any information that could lead to Dures’s arrest. This reward comprises £10,000 from Crimestoppers and an additional £10,000 from the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner’s office. The urgency of the situation is underscored by Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fallows’s comments, in which he emphasized Dures’s awareness of the police’s interest in speaking with him. “While Matthew’s family continues to seek answers about that night, I believe it’s time for Dures to do the right thing and turn himself in,” he stated.

The emotional toll of the tragedy is evident in the words of Daulby’s parents, who described their ongoing sense of loss. They expressed feeling “stuck in limbo,” grappling with the haunting question, “Why did this happen?” They also made a heartfelt plea to the public, urging anyone with information to assist in locating Dures: “We urge someone out there, please, please help our family find Thomas Dures.”

Dures’s connections to various locations, including Aughton and Liverpool, make him a priority for law enforcement agencies. His ability to evade capture has raised concerns among detectives, prompting them to collaborate with international partners.

The search for Dures has highlighted the broader implications of violent crime in the community. The tragic case of Matthew Daulby has resonated deeply, prompting discussions around safety, justice, and the need for accountability. As police efforts continue, community members are also rallying for justice, hoping for resolution in a case that has left many devastated.

Detectives have committed significant resources to ensure Dures is located and questioned. “We have officers in the UK actively searching for him, and we are coordinating with our National Crime Agency and Interpol colleagues in Spain,” Fallows reiterated.

The collaboration between local police and international agencies underscores the seriousness of the investigation. With Dures being a person of interest, law enforcement officials remain hopeful that leads will surface to facilitate his capture.

As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to grapple with the repercussions of the crime. The pain felt by Daulby’s family is a stark reminder of the violence that can disrupt lives, leading to a collective call for justice and the apprehension of those responsible.

In summary, the case remains open and active, with police determined to bring closure to Matthew Daulby’s family. As they pursue Thomas Dures in Spain, the hope is that the investigation will yield results that not only provide answers but also ensure accountability for the tragic loss of a young life. The community stands united in its quest for justice, awaiting developments in this heartbreaking case.