Novelty keyring ‘could help find killer’ in 27-year-old cold-case

Shona Stevens was murdered just 200 yards from her front door in November 1994.

9th Sep 2021

Police believe an ‘unusual object’ found at the scene of a 27-year-old unsolved murder could ‘hold the key’ to finally catching the killer.

Officers are issuing a new appeal for information regarding the murder of Shona Stevens who died in hospital after being found badly beaten just 200 yards from her front door in Irvine.

The 31-year-old had sustained serious head injuries.

Ahead of the 27th anniversary of the death, that took place in November 1994, investigating officers have released details of a novelty keyring found at the scene.

Detectives now believe that there is a chance that it could have been left behind by Shona’s killer.

A new appeal will be televised on the BBC’s Crimewatch at 10am on Thursday.

Keyring found at scene of Shona Steven's murder. — Keyring found at scene of Shona Steven’s murder. Police Scotland

Detective Inspector Fraser Normansell from Police Scotland has re-examined every piece of evidence and more than 2,000 witness statements to find new lines of investigation.

He said: “Something that seemed insignificant 27 years ago could be hugely significant now.

“These cases can flip on the smallest of details, and I’m determined to bring the offender to justice.”

Members of the public with information are asked to email cwl@bbc.co.uk, to call 101 and speak to Police Scotland, or to anonymously report it to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.