Five years after the tragic events, the dark mystery surrounding the murders of Johnny Robbins and Daniel Shaw remains unsolved. Johnny Robbins disappeared on March 21, 2018, at the age of 33. Authorities believe he was brutally tortured before being killed, but his body has never been found.
Johnny’s death is chillingly linked to the shooting of Daniel Shaw, who was discovered with gunshot wounds in Coventry’s Tile Hill area four days later, on March 25, 2018.
Investigators believe Johnny was taken to Daniel Shaw’s home on Torrington Avenue on the day he vanished. Although several arrests have been made in connection with the case, no charges have been filed to date.
Police have now released images of a distinctive Audi SQ5, which they believe was used to transport Johnny after his abduction. The vehicle was located in Birmingham 18 months later and has undergone extensive forensic examination.
Authorities are also searching for a man seen on CCTV wearing a motorcycle helmet, as well as a van spotted near Daniel Shaw’s home shortly before the shooting.
Ryan Hobday, who was 28 at the time and from Coventry, is wanted in connection with the murders. Police suspect he may be deceased, but his whereabouts remain unknown. The ongoing silence within the community has allowed the killers to remain free for five years.
To encourage information sharing, police and Crimestoppers have increased the reward to up to £20,000 for any vital tips that could help solve the case.
Johnny Robbins’ mother, Ginnie Robbins, expressed the family’s anguish: “What happened five years ago is still incomprehensible. We live daily with unanswered questions and deep sadness.” She also announced plans for a memorial this May, as the family has been unable to lay Johnny to rest without justice.
“We’ve waited in vain to be able to lay Johnny to rest properly. The time has come to pay tribute with a memorial service,” she said.
Daniel Shaw’s sister, Blossom, added: “We hold on to a little hope that those with information will speak up. Dan was kind-hearted, not involved in gangs, and he is deeply missed.”
Alan Edwards, West Midlands Regional Manager for Crimestoppers, appealed to the public: “If you know anything, please come forward anonymously. Your tip could help Johnny’s and Daniel’s families finally find peace.”
“We’ve helped millions with their anonymous crime tips since the 1980s — your identity will be safe, and you’ll be doing the right thing,” he added.
Detective Superintendent Chris Mallet stated: “These sickening murders happened on streets meant to be safe. The killers have been protected for too long. It’s time for justice.”
He urged Coventry residents to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or use their anonymous online form. Only tips submitted through Crimestoppers qualify for the reward. More details are available at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Additional information and footage can be submitted via the police’s dedicated site: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/20WMP18A18-PO1.
Originally published by UKNIP.