Armed police were called to a spotting of Bradley Blundell - which turned out to be a case of mistaken identity.
They were spotted near Writtle College in Chelmsford along Cow Watering Lane.
It was believed that six or seven armed police officers were seen this afternoon around 3.15pm.
A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Police were called to Cowwatering Lane, Writtle at around 2.15pm today (Thursday, September 21) following reports of a sighting of Bradley Blundell.
"Officers attended, searched the area, and it was established the man sighted was not him."
However, police are still encouraging people to report potential sightings of Bradley Blundell to them.
The spokesman added: "If you have any information on Bradley Blundell or you think you have seen him, then please call us."
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