A manhunt is underway in Plymouth after a woman died following a serious assault. Police are searching for Paul Antony Butler and warn he may be armed.
A manhunt is currently underway in Plymouth following a serious assault that resulted in the death of a woman. The incident occurred on Wednesday night on West Hoe Road, where the woman, in her 40s, was found seriously injured. She was immediately taken to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries during the early hours of Thursday.
Devon and Cornwall Police have identified a suspect in connection with the death: Paul Antony Butler, 53. Authorities have issued a warning to the public, advising them not to approach Butler, as he is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who spots him is urged to immediately call 999.
Butler is described as a tall man, approximately 6ft 5in (195cm), with a proportionate build, brown/grey hair, and blue eyes. Police are actively conducting inquiries to locate him and are appealing to the public for any information regarding his whereabouts.
Detective Inspector Rob Smith stated that releasing Butler’s image was a necessary step in the murder investigation. He confirmed that the suspect remains at large and that a major response is underway to apprehend him.
The police believe that Butler and the victim were known to each other. While the woman has not been formally identified, her next of kin have been informed of her death. A significant number of police units are present at the scene, conducting extensive inquiries and searches. Several local roads have been closed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident has caused considerable concern in the local community. A staff member at Central Convenience on Walker Terrace, near West Hoe Road, reported hearing screams and calls for an ambulance. The shop was within the police cordon, and staff were instructed to keep the doors locked and to restrict entry and exit.
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed deep shock and sadness over the event. The police are urging anyone with information to contact them immediately.
West Hoe Road was closed following the incident, with a large police presence in the area. Detectives are treating the incident as isolated, and do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the wider public.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The public is asked to avoid the West Hoe area to allow police to conduct their investigation effectively.
Sources: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c33413jny6vo
https://news.sky.com/story/manhunt-launched-in-plymouth-after-serious-assault-13294728
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jan/23/plymouth-police-search-for-suspect-after-serious-assault-in-street