Police reopen 40-year-old chilly case as officers publish new e-fits of suspect
Esme Hoad was beaten around the head with a blunt instrument and stabbed in the chest in her own home more than 40 years ago — and now officers are reopening the case
Detectives have issued e-fits (electronic facial identification technique) of a pair they wish to speak to regarding the savage unsolved killing of an elderly woman more than 40 years ago. The brutal murder took place all the way back in 1982, but new technology could help finally solve the case.
Esme Hoad, 85, was bludgeoned in the head with a blunt object and knifed in the chest at her own home. Police said the assault took place whilst Esme was alone at her property in Havelock Road in Tonbridge, Kent.
Officers now hope a distinctive footprint discovered at the location showing the brand name “Banana” might assist in cracking the case. They have since renewed the appeal, hoping that someone with any new leads could come forward.
Esme’s remains were discovered by police on December 8 1982 after neighbours reported she hadn’t been spotted for several days, according to the Mirror. Cold case investigators examining the unsolved killing had put up a £20,000 reward as they launched a fresh appeal for information more than 40 years later.
Constables found no evidence of break-in. A “substantial amount of blood” was discovered at the crime scene.
Police are still attempting to locate the mysterious duo who were believed to have frequently called on Esme whilst driving a blue Mini Traveller. They were thought to have been engaged in purchasing antiques and it was suspected numerous items may have been taken from Esme’s residence during the vicious attack.
At the time, media appeals were launched to locate items such as porcelain figures of a young girl and a pouncing tiger, along with a brass lamp that was also believed to be missing. The couple and their car were never identified, and an extensive investigation failed to find any evidence linking them to the murder or confirming whether any antique items had indeed been stolen.
Kent Police have stated that they remain “committed” to finding the murderer. Det Insp Lee Neiles said: “Esme Hoad was a much-loved member of her community and the brutality of her murder shocked the whole town.
“More than 40 years have passed, but time does not diminish our determination to find the person responsible. We believe someone out there knows what happened, and even the smallest piece of information could be the key to unlocking this case.
“If you have any information about this case, including about the couple linked to a blue Mini Traveller or the antiques suspected to be missing, please come forward. Your information could finally help us deliver justice for Esme and closure for those who cared about her.”
If anyone has information that could aid the investigation, call 01303 289600 quoting AC/1400/82. You can also provide information through the force’s online portal.
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