Merseyside Police are investigating the alleged murder of a woman in her 70s, whose body was found in a black bin bag in Stanley Park, Anfield, Liverpool, on August 28. The force has received over 40 potential names for the victim and 120 witness reports as inquiries continue.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald stated that one week after the discovery, the investigation has generated significant public engagement, but the victim's identity remains unknown. A DNA profile has been established, but it has not matched any records on national databases, and dental records could not be compared.
The body is believed to have been in the bin bag for several weeks. The victim is described as white, around 70 years old, approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall, of slight build, with strawberry blonde hair, and was wearing a pink Nike T-shirt.
Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson, leading the investigation, emphasized the urgency of identifying the woman, highlighting that she could be a grandmother, sister, aunt, or friend. "She was someone's child once and may have had children herself," Wilson said in a video appeal. "We need to know who she is so we can find whoever killed her."
Stanley Park, a 110-acre public space frequented by joggers, dog walkers, and families, lies between the football stadiums of Liverpool FC and Everton FC. Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area of the walled gardens in recent weeks to come forward.
Despite extensive house-to-house inquiries and CCTV reviews, the victim's identity has not yet been confirmed. A post-mortem examination has been conducted, but the cause of death has been withheld for investigative purposes. Police have also checked missing person reports without success.
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Ryan acknowledged the discovery's unsettling nature for local residents but assured the public that a dedicated team is working to find answers. He urged park visitors who may have seen something unusual, even if it seemed insignificant at the time, to report it.
Merseyside Police have set up a mobile police station in the park and are encouraging anyone with information to contact them via social media, their website, or by calling 101, quoting reference number 26000706383. A dedicated online portal is also available for submitting images or footage. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers.
