Hunt for body of Nicola Payne resumes as police search woodland at Coombe Abbey - The Coventry Observer

Hunt for body of Nicola Payne resumes as police search woodland at Coombe Abbey

Coventry Editorial 8th Nov, 2016 Updated: 8th Nov, 2016   0

THE SEARCH for Coventry mum Nicola Payne has resumed as police search an area of woodland in Coombe Abbey Country Park.

Specialist search officers are carrying out a number of searches as a result of new information coming to light into what happened to the teenager, who disappeared 25 years ago.

Although nothing of relevance has been found at this stage, the searches are on-going and officers have vowed to continue in their quest to find what happened to Nicola and bring those responsible for her abduction and murder to justice.

The searches have been taking place for a number of weeks and have included support from scientists from various fields, cadaver dogs and other specialists.




8-11-16-nicola-payne-search-1

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Martin Slevin said: “These searches come after we received credible evidence from an eye witness concerning the sighting of two men in this area on the day Nicola disappeared.


“West Midlands Police is as committed as ever to finding Nicola’s remains.

“We promised her family following the acquittal of two men last year that we would continue to investigate this crime and bring those responsible for her abduction and murder to justice.

“We will endeavour to bring them the closure they deserve.”

Nicola was just 19 years old when she went missing on December 14, 1991 while travelling from the home she shared with her boyfriend and baby son to her parents’ home when she disappeared.

Nicola Payne

Nicola Payne

It was a familiar journey across a patch of wasteland, known locally as ‘Black Pad’, that should have taken just five minutes.

But her body has never been found.

DCI Slevin added: “December this year sees 25 years passing since Nicola disappeared but the information that brought us to this site demonstrates that there are still people out there with vital information that may assist.

“I would urge anyone who has yet to contact us to come forward and let us assess the value of the information you hold.

“It may be the piece of the jigsaw we are seeking.”

Although items of interest have been examined nothing of relevance has yet been located, and officers will continue until the area has been completely searched.

Two men were acquitted of her murder at Birmingham Crown Court last year.

Anyone with information about Nicola’s disappearance should contact the investigation team on 101 or call Crimestoppers, confidentially on 0800 555 111.

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