What's new: Police have disclosed that three declared suspects for the murder have died, hoping this information will encourage people to come forward without fear of repercussions.
Why it matters: The brutal killing of 21-year-old Karen Hales in her Ipswich home remains unsolved after nearly 31 years, leaving her family without closure.
The details:
Karen was found stabbed to death and set on fire in her kitchen on 21 November 1993
Her 18-month-old daughter was in the house but unharmed
The case was featured on BBC Crimewatch Live on 9 October 2024
Police interviewed over 400 motorists and followed up more than 1,400 lines of enquiry at the time
What they're saying: Andy Guy, Major Crime Review and Unsolved Case Team Manager, said: "Despite the passage of time, the effects of this senseless murder are still very much felt by Karen's family – in particular her parents who had to endure the unimaginable trauma of discovering the crime scene."
Between the lines: By revealing the death of key suspects, police hope to remove barriers for potential witnesses who may have been afraid to come forward previously.
The bottom line: Investigators urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Unsolved Case Team or Crimestoppers anonymously.
How to help:
Call the Unsolved Case Team: 01953 423819
Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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Ipswich Central
Ipswich Central is the Business Improvement District (BID) for the town centre, waterfront, and 'Connected Town' area.
Ipswich Sports Club
Ipswich Sports Club is one of Suffolk’s leading independent, competitive racket sports and hockey clubs, with a rich history spanning over a century.
Gipping Construction
Based just outside Ipswich, Gipping Construction is an employee-owned construction company that operates in the private and public sectors across East Anglia.Ann Summers pulls out of Ipswich town centre
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Ipswich Central is the Business Improvement District (BID) for the town centre, waterfront, and 'Connected Town' area.Ipswich Sports Club
Ipswich Sports Club is one of Suffolk’s leading independent, competitive racket sports and hockey clubs, with a rich history spanning over a century.Gipping Construction
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