Man, 92, Found Guilty in UK’s Oldest Cold Case Solved by DNA

In a historic breakthrough, a 92-year-old man has been convicted in what is believed to be the longest-running cold case ever prosecuted in the UK. The case, dating back to 1967, involved the tragic death of a woman who was born in the late 1800s. Thanks to advances in forensic science, justice was finally served after nearly six decades.

Decades-Old Crime Finally Solved

On June 30, a Bristol Crown Court jury found Ryland Headley guilty of the rape and murder of 75-year-old Louisa Dunne, who was found dead in her home in Bristol in June 1967. Louisa, a mother of two, had lived alone. Concern arose when neighbors noticed her absence one morning—she wasn’t at her doorstep as she was every day.

Upon checking in, neighbors found Louisa’s body inside her home. Disturbing details were noted at the scene, including visible injuries and physical evidence that, at the time, could not be fully examined due to the absence of DNA testing.

Massive Investigation, But No Suspect

Police at the time launched a large-scale investigation, collecting over 19,000 palm print samples and conducting thousands of interviews. But despite their efforts, the case went cold. Crucial evidence was sealed and stored at Avon and Somerset Police headquarters, where it remained untouched for decades.

Headley had lived just outside the area police focused on during the initial investigation and was never considered a suspect at the time.

Case Reopened in 2024 with New Technology

In 2024, investigators reopened the case and used modern DNA techniques to re-analyze the preserved samples. The breakthrough came when forensic scientists matched the semen found at the scene to Headley with overwhelming statistical certainty—reportedly a billion times more likely to be his than anyone else’s. Palm prints recovered from the scene were also confirmed to match his.

Following his arrest in November 2024, the case swiftly moved to trial.

Pattern of Violence Uncovered

During the trial, it was revealed that Headley had a criminal record, having previously served prison sentences for two separate rape convictions in the 1970s. Prosecutor Anna Vigars KC emphasized this pattern, describing a disturbing history of violent behavior toward women, including attacks in their homes.

She argued that Headley had a habit of targeting women—particularly those who lived alone—and using force against them.

Justice at Last

After reviewing the forensic evidence and testimony, the jury found Headley guilty of both rape and murder. Detective Inspector Dave Marchant, who led the reopened investigation, said the result proved why cold cases should never be forgotten.

“This case shows that no matter how much time has passed, justice can still be achieved,” he said.

If You Need Support

This story touches on sensitive topics. If you or someone you know has been impacted, support is available. Contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or visit online.rainn.org for confidential help, available 24/7.