[[Barry Prudom]] (1944 – 4 July 1982) was an English [[spree killer]] and [[fugitive]] who became the subject of one of the largest [[manhunt]]s in British history in 1982.
Early Life and Background
Born Barry Anthony Prudom in 1944, he was a former soldier in the [[Royal Artillery]]. He had a history of [[violence]] and had served prison sentences for assault. At the time of the events for which he became known, he had recently been released from prison. Prudom was noted for his survival skills and knowledge of the outdoors, which he utilized during his time as a fugitive.The Killings and Manhunt
The events began in June 1982 when Prudom embarked on a violent crime spree across [[North Yorkshire]], England.- 17 June 1982: Prudom murdered [[Police Constable]] David Haigh after being stopped in his car near [[Thirsk]]. He then stole PC Haigh's uniform and radio.
- 20 June 1982: Prudom murdered 56-year-old George Izzard in his home in [[Linton-on-Ouse]], near [[York]], stealing his car.
- 23 June 1982: Prudom murdered PC Robert Tattersall in a woodland near [[Bishop Wood]], Selby, after Tattersall had stopped to investigate a suspicious car.
These killings triggered an unprecedented [[police operation]], often referred to as "The Great North Yorkshire Manhunt." Over a period of 18 days, thousands of police officers from various forces, including [[North Yorkshire Police]], [[West Yorkshire Police]], and [[Greater Manchester Police]], along with support from the [[British Army]] and [[Royal Air Force]] helicopters, scoured the vast and remote areas of the North Yorkshire moors and forests. The operation involved detailed grid searches, roadblocks, and extensive public appeals. Prudom's ability to evade capture for so long, given his military training and survival skills, led to intense media interest and public concern.