A tragic crime from 1986 continues to haunt the community of Birkenhead, Merseyside. Diane Sindall, a young florist aged 21, was raped and murdered, creating a lasting shadow over the area. Now, in an effort to solve this long-standing case, Merseyside Police and Crimestoppers have announced a £20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of her killer.
The Crime and Its Impact
Diane Sindall was attacked after finishing a late shift at a pub. To support her upcoming wedding plans, she took on the part-time job. After her blue Fiat minivan ran out of petrol, she exited the vehicle to walk home. Tragically, she was later raped and brutally beaten to death. Her body was discovered in an alley the following day.
Miscarriage of Justice
For many years, attention focused on a local man named Peter Sullivan, who was convicted for the crime. Sullivan, then 30 years old, always maintained his innocence. However, in 2022, advancements in DNA testing proved he was not connected to the semen samples obtained from the scene. After spending 38 years in prison, Sullivan was released, marking the longest miscarriage of justice in UK history.
New Hope in the Investigation
In a renewed investigation, Merseyside Police are exploring DNA evidence from the original crime scene. Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson stated that they have identified a DNA profile that could belong to the perpetrator. This profile is now considered the primary lead in their ongoing investigation.
Steps to Justice
- Merseyside Police are collaborating with Crimestoppers to raise awareness of the case.
- A £20,000 reward is available for information leading to an arrest.
- Police remain hopeful despite the passage of nearly 40 years since the crime.
Authorities acknowledge that Diane’s killer may no longer be alive. Nevertheless, they remain optimistic about identifying the individual responsible for this heinous crime, seeking justice for Diane and her grieving family.
