Police extend reward for unsolved murder of Ricky Haywood

Ricky Haywood was just 36 years old when he was fatally shot five times in his flat above Ambiance Jewellers on Shirley Road on Monday, October 16, 1989.

In the decades since, Ricky’s family have spent decades searching for answers – with no-one ever being charged in relation to the fatal Shirley shooting.

Ricky's mother, Phyllis, offered a £50,000 reward in October 1999 - she has since died not knowing what happened to her son.

Phyllis Haywood (Image: NQ) Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Western Major Crime team re-opened the investigation into Ricky’s death in October last year.

Despite a lengthy and complex investigation at the time, no one has been charged with his murder.

Senior Investigating Officer Elizabeth Brunt, who is leading the investigation, said: “I have been extremely impressed with the response we have had from the public since we re-appealed for information in relation to this case back in October.

“The information that people have provided to us have given us new lines of enquiry which we continue to look into.

“Those that we have spoken to throughout the course of our investigation have been very helpful, however we still need more people to come forward and break their silence. Ricky’s family still need answers and we will not stop working to secure justice for them.

“I still believe that someone knows why Ricky was killed and who was responsible. Whatever your allegiances, you would be doing the right thing by telling us what you know.”

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Police have said more than 80 people having been spoken to and new lines of enquiry being followed up on.

Ambiance Jewellers, Shirley (Image: NQ) Beth Simpson, Regional Manager at the charity Crimestoppers, said: “If you have information about those involved in Mr Haywood’s murder and have remained silent, please consider speaking up now.

“We’re extending our reward of up to £20,000 for information that leads to the conviction of the person or people responsible. You can tell us what you know and be confident that no one will ever find out that you spoke up – you will remain 100% anonymous at all times.

“We cannot trace your call and will never ask for your name. You won’t have to speak to the police, give a witness statement or go to court.”