Who solved the Louisa Dunne cold case?

The Louisa Dunne cold case was solved by Jo Smith, a major crime review officer for Avon and Somerset police.

What evidence led to solving the 1967 Bristol murder?

Forensic DNA evidence from the victim's skirt, found on old case exhibits, led to the identification of the killer.

How long was Ryland Headley's sentence for Louisa Dunne's murder?

Ryland Headley was sentenced to life imprisonment, meaning he will likely die in prison.

Home / Crime and Justice / Coldest Case Solved: Justice After 58 Years

Coldest Case Solved: Justice After 58 Years

24 Dec

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Summary

Forensic DNA evidence solved a 58-year-old murder case.
The convicted killer is a 92-year-old man, Ryland Headley.
This case is believed to be the longest-running cold case solved.

Coldest Case Solved: Justice After 58 Years

A 58-year-old murder case, believed to be the UK's longest cold case, has been solved thanks to a dusty box of forgotten files. Louisa Dunne was raped and murdered in her Bristol home in June 1967. The initial investigation yielded no leads, with only a palm print found on a window. Decades later, officer Jo Smith revisited the case, leading to the re-examination of old exhibits.

Forensic analysis of evidence from the original crime scene provided a DNA profile, which matched Ryland Headley, then 92 years old and living in Ipswich. Headley was convicted in June 2024 and sentenced to life imprisonment. The case spanned over five decades, demonstrating the persistence required to achieve justice for victims of historical crimes.

This groundbreaking investigation not only brought closure to Louisa Dunne's family but also highlighted the crucial role of forensic science and dedicated officers in solving complex, long-standing cases. Smith's work exemplifies the potential for uncovering hidden truths within archived evidence, bringing long-delayed justice to light.