‘It’s not too late to tell us who murdered Joe’
COPS IN NEW APPEAL ON 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF HORROR ARSON ATTACK
“WHATEVER your reasons for not speaking, it is not too late to do so now.”
That’s the message from a senior West Yorkshire Police detective on the 25th anniversary of the unsolved murder of a little boy in Huddersfield.
Detectives have urged people who may never have shared vital information about the 1997 murder of Joe McCafferty, to finally break their silence.
Joe’s mum Tracey has led a campaign for justice and recently took the case to the House of Commons where she handed in a petition calling for a fresh investigation.
West Yorkshire Police’s Major Investigation Review Team has said the force remains as committed as ever to bringing those responsible to justice.
Police say they have examined many lines of inquiry since Joe’s murder on May 3, 1997, in an arson attack at a property on Haywood Crescent, Huddersfield.
Joe had been staying at the house which was set alight after petrol was poured through the letterbox and ignited in the early hours of that day.
A major investigation was launched but despite multiple inquiries by teams of detectives those responsible have not been caught.
DCI Sharron Kaye, of West Yorkshire Police Protective Services Crime, said: “Our investigation into the murder of seven-year-old Joe McCafferty remains open and we remain committed to finding the persons responsible.
“It is now 25 years since Joe’s death and I believe that vital information to identify those responsible is in existence but, for whatever reason, has not been shared with the police.
“I would ask that person to reflect and to use the upcoming significant anniversary as an opportunity to come forward. “Whatever your reasons for not speaking, it is not too late to do so now.”
She added: “As forensic technology develops we will continue to review the physical evidence that exists and I would ask anyone who can help our enquiry to please contact the Major Investigation Review Team on 101 or contact us at www.westyorkshire. police.uk/101livechat
“Information can always also be given in complete anonymity to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”
Joe’s mum Tracey has been calling for an outside force to look into the case and has previously said that she has lost faith in West Yorkshire Police.