92-Year-Old Charged in 1967 Cold Case Murder of Louisa Dunne After New Forensic Breakthrough
November 20, 2024The cause of Ms. Dunne's death was determined to be strangulation and asphyxiation, with her body found by a neighbor.
The case, which remained unsolved for nearly six decades, was recently reviewed by police, leading to this significant development.
New forensic evidence uncovered in 2023 ultimately led to Headley's arrest.
The arrest was made by Avon and Somerset Police in Ipswich, where operational police activity is ongoing.
Police suspect that the killer broke into Dunne's home between 11:30 PM and 4 AM, noting there was no sign of a struggle.
Louisa Dunne's family has been informed about the charging decision and is receiving ongoing support from a specialist liaison officer.
Detective Inspector Dave Marchant described this arrest as a significant moment in the long-running investigation, emphasizing the importance of a fair trial for the defendant.
The case will be transferred to the crown court for a hearing scheduled for November 21, 2024, with Headley remaining in custody until then.
Headley appeared at Bristol Magistrates' Court via video link on November 20, 2024, where he confirmed his identity but did not enter pleas.
The community in Easton is expected to be shocked by the news of the arrest, given the long history of the case.
A palm print found near an open window at Dunne's home contributed to the investigation that had gone cold for decades.
A 92-year-old man, Ryland Headley, has been charged with the rape and murder of Louisa Dunne, whose body was discovered strangled in her Easton, Bristol home on June 28, 1967.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Nov 20, 2024
Man, 92, appears in court for alleged 1967 rape and murder of Bristol womanThe Guardian • Nov 20, 2024
Man charged with 1967 rape and murder of Bristol womanThe Independent • Nov 20, 2024
92-year-old man charged with 1967 rape and murder of Louisa DunneThe Independent • Nov 19, 2024
Louisa Dunne man arrested over murder and rape of woman in Bristol in 1967