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A 92-year-old man has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 20 years for the rape and murder of a 75-year-old widow in a case dating back nearly six decades.
Ryland Headley, now living in Ipswich, was convicted at Bristol Crown Court for the brutal killing of Louisa Dunne at her home in Easton, Bristol, in June 1967. The case marks the UK’s longest-running cold case to result in a criminal trial.
Breakthrough with modern DNA technology
The murder went unsolved for over 50 years until Avon and Somerset Police re-examined forensic evidence. A DNA sample collected from the original crime scene, along with a palm print, led investigators to Headley after reprocessing items with modern techniques.
Detectives said the sample matched Headley’s DNA profile, linking him conclusively to the scene where Ms Dunne’s body was discovered by neighbours.
History of violence
At the time of the murder, Headley was a 34-year-old railway worker. A decade later, he was convicted of raping two elderly women in 1977—incidents prosecutors say revealed a disturbing pattern.
“He showed a tendency to break into homes at night, targeting elderly women who lived alone,” prosecutors told the court. “He used violence and sexual assault even when his victims attempted to resist.”
Despite denying the charges, Headley was found guilty by a jury of rape and murder. He did not give evidence during the trial.
Police investigating wider links
In sentencing, the judge noted the “appalling brutality” of the attack and the impact on the victim’s family, who lived for decades without answers.
Police are now investigating whether Headley may be connected to other unsolved violent crimes against elderly women across the UK.
Statement from police
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said:
“This case demonstrates the power of forensic science and our commitment to bringing justice—no matter how long it takes. Our thoughts remain with the family of Louisa Dunne, who have waited 58 years for justice.”
If you have information about unsolved crimes potentially linked to Ryland Headley, contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101 or via their website.
