Kevin Childerley was killed in a ‘savage attack’ at his home in Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, 35 years ago – and police have now arrested a 62-year-old woman
A mystery killer stabbed a “much loved” dad to death in a “savage attack” while he was sleeping in his bed 35 years ago.
Kevin Childerley, 30, and his wife Denise, 32, were asleep at their home in Sherwood Street, Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, when they were attacked in the early hours of February 19, 1990, with their two young children in the house, Nottinghamshire Police said. The force said Mr Childerley died at the scene, but his wife survived the attack. The cold case is now being brought back to the limelight after a 62-year-old woman was arrested in April on suspicion of perverting the course of justice in connection with the incident. She was interviewed by detectives and bailed pending further investigations.
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Detective Chief Inspector Ruby Burrow of Nottinghamshire Police said: “This was a savage attack which took the life of a much-loved father and left his wife with lifelong injuries. Throughout our investigations we have been determined to get justice for both victims in this case, as well as for their two children and the grandchildren who never got to meet their grandad.
“Kevin was a much-loved family man described as a ‘joker’ with a great sense of humour by those who knew him. The attack tore apart the family and robbed Kevin’s children of a lifetime of memories.
“The case has never been closed and a dedicated team of detectives has been reinvestigating what happened that night using the latest investigative tools and technology. Following recent developments we have visited the neighbourhood to engage with a number of people we believe could help with our inquiries.
“It was a very positive exercise and I’d like to thank people for their co-operation. The arrest is also an important development and we have shared the news with Denise and other family members.
“We know the answer to Kevin’s murder lies within the community and we also believe allegiances and loyalties will have changed after the passing of more than three decades.”
Mr Childerley’s daughter, Emma, who was just five at the time of the attack, which saw the killer climb through a kitchen window and strike her dad several times in the head, has also issued a new plea for information. Police are urging anyone who can help their investigation to contact them.
DCI added: “I’d continue to encourage anyone with any information, no matter how small, to please continue to get in touch with our officers or anonymously through Crimestoppers.”