Murder Probe Launched as Search for Missing Mum Katie Kenyon Takes Grim Turn
Police Now Treat Case as Homicide
Despite relentless efforts, Katie Kenyon has still not been found. Detectives now believe the 33-year-old mum is sadly no longer alive. The investigation has shifted from a missing person enquiry to a full homicide probe.
A 50-year-old man remains in custody, questioned over Katie’s disappearance and suspected murder. Police have applied to extend his detention until 9pm on Wednesday, April 27th.
Katie’s family has been kept up to date and is receiving support from specialist officers during this devastating time.
Last Sighting and Ongoing Searches
The last confirmed sighting of Katie was around 9.30am on Friday, April 22nd. CCTV and witness accounts say she left an address on Todmorden Road, Burnley, travelling with a man in a silver Ford Transit van (registration MT57 FLC) heading towards Bolton by Bowland. She hasn’t been seen since.
Police urge anyone in the Bolton by Bowland or Gisburn Forest areas who saw Katie alone or with the man, or who has dashcam footage of the van, to come forward immediately.
Details on Katie and Police Appeal
Katie Kenyon is described as white, 33 years old, 5’9”, with shoulder-length strawberry blond/ginger highlighted hair. She was last seen wearing a blue shirt/jacket, white vest top, black leggings, and flip flops.
“While I hold some slim hope that Katie may still be found alive, I’m sad to say that she has now been missing for over four days,” said Det Supt Gary Brooks, Lancashire Police’s Head of Major Crime.
“Despite extensive enquiries and media appeals, there have been no sightings. We have spoken to Katie’s family who are understandably devastated. Our support continues.”
“We appreciate the public’s help so far and urge anyone with any information, no matter how small, to come forward. Our enquiries continue despite having a suspect in custody.”
“Searches are underway across several locations including Gisburn Forest, with over 60 officers and specialist units from Lancashire, Merseyside, North Wales, and GMP involved. We thank The Salvation Army for providing a feeding station.”
“I urge the public not to join the searches. The area is remote, large and without phone signal. Our trained teams are handling it. We don’t want anyone getting lost or injured.”
How to Help
- If you have any information, call police on 101 quoting log 800 of April 24th.
- Alternatively, report via the Major Incident Public Portal: mipp.police.uk
- You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
