Detectives are desperate for answers 30 years after primary school teacher Joy Hewer was viciously murdered in her own home. Police have launched a fresh appeal, offering up to £20,000 for information that cracks the cold case wide open.
Teacher Brutally Killed in Her Own Flat
Joy Hewer, 52, was found stabbed and sexually assaulted in her sixth-floor flat at St David’s Court, Walthamstow, with no signs of forced entry. This chilling detail suggests she knew her killer.
Her body was discovered after two fires had been deliberately set in the bedroom and lounge. It was a call to the London Fire Brigade that ultimately led police to the devastating scene.
Police Use Cutting-Edge DNA Tech in Cold Case Push
Met’s Cold Case Homicide Team is pulling out all the stops, including using modern forensic methods and advanced DNA technology to hunt down the killer.
Detective Constable Murray Bannister said, “A full DNA profile was recovered from the scene and we continue to explore all leads. This horrific crime still haunts Joy’s family, and we will not rest until justice is done.”
Family Plea: ‘We Deserve Peace’
Joy’s sister, Penny Barnes, 72, has made a heartfelt appeal:
“Thirty years ago, my sister Joy was brutally murdered in her own home. She was a gentle, caring woman who hurt no one yet her life was taken in the cruelest way.
Our family has suffered in torment for three decades. Our parents died without ever knowing the truth.
Someone out there knows what happened. Please, after all this time, do the right thing. Even the smallest detail could finally bring justice for Joy and peace for us, her family.”
Vital Witnesses Still Missing
- Joy was last seen leaving the London Healing Mission in Notting Hill around 3.30pm on the day she died.
- She visited a chemist near her home at 5.50pm.
- A neighbour heard loud banging at the flat between 10.30pm and 11pm.
- A mysterious male caller alerted the fire brigade at 11.18pm — his identity and a second person he spoke to remain unknown.
- Police want to trace a man seen on CCTV entering St David’s Court at around 10.30pm wearing a light-coloured jacket.
How to Help Catch Joy’s Killer
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police on 07599 822129 or anonymously call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
This is the shocking unsolved murder of a beloved teacher and charity worker. After 30 years, it’s time the truth came out – and a family found justice.
