Tracey Mertens death: appeal for information renewed

Tracey Mertens

As Christmas Day approaches, detectives are renewing their appeal for information on the death of Tracey Mertens who was doused in petrol and set alight in a churchyard 22 years ago.

The mother-of-two, who was living in Rochdale at the time, had travelled down to Birmingham on 22 December 1994 to collect a benefits book from her former home in Cattells Grove, Nechells.

It is believed she initially intended to return the same day but instead ended up staying overnight at her sister-in-law′s and visited her former home the next morning.

Shortly before midday on 23 December 1994 she answered a knock at the door of the house in Cattells Grove. She was confronted by two black men. Police believe Tracey was abducted and bundled into the back of a yellow Ford Escort, which was parked outside the address.

Tracey was then driven to Eaton churchyard in Cheshire where she was set on fire and left to die. A member of the public came to her aid and she was taken to hospital where she was able to tell detectives what had happened to her.

She had sustained 95% burns to her body and bravely clung to life for a further 12 hours before she sadly died.

An investigation was launched and, despite extensive and exhaustive enquiries over the years, no-one has ever been convicted in connection with her death.

Det Insp Gary McIntyre of Cheshire Police said: "Tracey met a violent and horrific death at the hands of her killers.

"She was so brave and told detectives as much as she could before she died.

"I would personally appeal to anyone who has any information about Tracey's death to get in touch - even the smallest amount of information can be crucial when piecing together a case.

"I appreciate that it is a long time ago but I am sure that if you witnessed something you would still remember this now."

A £30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Ms Merten's death still stands.