The police are seeking to speak with a man regarding the murder case of Melanie Hall, which occurred almost 30 years ago. Melanie, aged 25, was last seen at Cadillacs nightclub in Bath on June 9, 1996, sitting near the dancefloor. Her remains were discovered in October 2009, wrapped in rope and bin bags near the M5 motorway.
The investigation into Melanie’s murder has been ongoing for nearly three decades and remains active. Avon and Somerset Police are conducting a comprehensive review of the case, digitizing 90 crates of evidence to utilize the latest technology for analysis.
The list of potential suspects has been narrowed down to fewer than 20 individuals, with detectives re-interviewing alibi witnesses. One witness reported seeing a man interacting with someone matching Melanie’s description on the night she disappeared.
The authorities have issued a new e-fit of the man seen with Melanie, described as smart-looking, white, in his mid to late 20s, with specific physical features. Melanie’s attire and personal belongings on the night she vanished have never been located.
Despite the arrest of eleven individuals in connection with the case over the years, no one has been charged. Melanie, who held a psychology degree, was found with severe injuries and bound in bin bags and rope when her remains were discovered.
Efforts are underway to extract new evidence from recovered items linked to the crime, including a partial DNA profile. Among the persons of interest is Christopher Halliwell, a convicted murderer with similarities to other abduction cases in nearby locations.
As the 30th anniversary of Melanie’s murder approaches, the Operation Denmark team is intensifying their investigation. Detectives are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of solving this longstanding mystery.
If you have information regarding the case, you are encouraged to contact Avon and Somerset Constabulary or provide details through the dedicated appeal on the Major Incident Public Portal. Crimestoppers also offers a confidential reporting option for those with relevant information.