Police search for killer who absconded after prison release

Police in Northern Ireland are searching for convicted murderer Gary Anderson, who failed to return to custody after being temporarily released from Maghaberry Prison to attend his father's funeral. The 29-year-old was granted leave earlier this week but has not been seen since Monday morning. Anderson was last spotted at approximately 11 a.m. on Monday in the Eastway area of Creggan, Derry. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched an extensive manhunt, which includes searches, CCTV reviews, and increased patrols. Officers are also coordinating with An Garda Síochána due to concerns that Anderson may have crossed the border into the Republic of Ireland. Detective Inspector Gareth Lavery stated that police are investigating every report received from the public. "However, as of this time, Gary Anderson has not been located," he said. Lavery issued a direct appeal to Anderson to hand himself in and urged anyone with information not to approach him directly but to contact authorities immediately. Anderson is serving a 15-year sentence for the murder of Karol Kelly in Derry in March 2018.