Northampton: Arsonist on the run after escaping a psychiatric hospital

An urgent search for a convicted arsonist, 19, who is at large has been ongoing for more than two days.

Johnny Brady escaped from a Northampton psychiatric hospital around 3.30pm on New Year’s Eve.

Police fear the teenager may have started three separate fires since fleeing the grounds of St Andrew’s Healthcare facility on Billing Road.

They said Sunday they are investigating three cases of garbage bag arson that occurred during the night.

But there have been no confirmed sightings of Brady since he left the hospital and the immediate area.

The criminal was serving a hospital order following convictions for aggravated assault and arson.

People have been urged not to approach him if they see him and to call the police instead.

Brady is white, about 5ft 9in tall and slim build. He was last seen in black Adidas sweatpants, a black hoodie and black sneakers.

Detective Superintendent Richard Tompkins said: “Johnny is serving a hospital restraint on arson and aggravated assault convictions which is why it is very important that the public do not approach him under any circumstances but instead call 999 immediately.

“We are investigating three separate incidents of garbage bag arson that occurred overnight in areas within a few miles of the hospital compound that may be linked to Johnny.

“Arson has potentially deadly consequences and we are asking the public to be extra vigilant in their local communities.

“If you see anyone acting suspiciously near property or intentionally setting fire to objects such as trash cans, please call us on 999 immediately.”

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