Detectives are renewing their appeal for information relating to the murder of Shelley Morgan, who disappeared 40 years ago. On Monday, June 11, 1984, Shelley, 33, failed to pick up her children from school or return to her home on Dunkerry Road in Bristol.
Tragically, her remains were discovered four months later, on Sunday, October 14, 1984, in woodland off Long Lane, near Backwell. A forensic post-mortem examination confirmed that she had suffered multiple stab wounds. While there was no evidence of sexual assault, investigators believe the attack was sexually motivated.
Despite a thorough murder investigation, Shelley’s killer has never been traced.
Detective Inspector Dave Marchant, of the Major and Statutory Crime Review Team, emphasised their commitment to solving the case: "Forty years may have passed, but our resolve has not lessened. We remain committed to providing Shelley’s family with answers and, if her killer is still alive, bringing them to justice."
On the day of her disappearance, Shelley headed toward Leigh Woods, intending to take photographs and sketch. Unconfirmed sightings place her on a bus travelling toward the area and near Ashton Court. She was wearing a scarlet-coloured top, a white skirt, maroon-coloured tights, and large red circular glasses. Shelley carried a homemade patchwork bag and her 35mm Olympus OM20 camera. Neither her clothing nor her camera has ever been recovered, but investigators remain hopeful that someone may yet come across the camera, as it remains popular with collectors.
Shelley’s sister, Hollie Brian, reflected on the impact of her loss: "For 35 years, I’ve watched the events of Shelley’s life pass by without her. It’s been 35 years of silence in the life she didn’t get to live." Brian urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasising the need for closure and justice.
Detective Inspector Marchant acknowledged the passage of time but remained optimistic: "With the advancement of forensic science, we believe we can still solve this horrendous forty-year-old crime. Our public appeals generate new leads and help us answer previously unanswered questions."
Five years ago, investigators released images of two postcards depicting the River Avon in Bristol and St. Andrew’s Church from the direction of Backwell Hill. Although some leads were ruled out, the team hopes that changing loyalties and relationships may prompt new information.
The key to Shelley’s killer’s identity likely lies in the locations she visited that day. If you have any information, especially if you own an Olympus OM20 camera from the 1980s with the serial number 1032853, please contact the police.
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