Anonymous Tip Could Hold Key to Solving 36-Year-Old Southampton Murder

An anonymous tip received more than two decades ago could hold the crucial key to solving one of Southampton’s longest-running murder mysteries.

Richard Haywood — known to friends and family as Ricky — was just 36 when he was shot multiple times at close range in his flat above Ambiance Jewellers on Shirley Road, Southampton, on October 16, 1989.

Despite extensive investigations over the past 36 years, no one has ever been charged in connection with his murder.

Now, detectives leading a renewed enquiry believe a 2004 anonymous Crimestoppers report could provide the missing link in the case.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Elizabeth Brunt said:

“When we received this information back in 2004, it was just one fragment which, alone, didn’t add much to the investigation. However, together with new information we’ve gathered, it is now starting to build a clearer picture.

“We need to speak to the person who contacted us back in 2004. Was this you? Are you willing to speak to us again, or make contact 100% anonymously through Crimestoppers?”

Police have spent the past year re-examining thousands of reports, statements, and exhibits linked to the original investigation. Since reopening the case in 2024, officers have identified a number of fresh lines of enquiry and are revisiting more than 200 individuals — including witnesses interviewed in 1989 and new potential sources of information.

Detectives believe Ricky’s killer had at least one accomplice and are appealing to anyone who knew him, or who may have heard information over the years, to come forward.

“We know people from across the country would come down to Southampton to visit Ricky’s shop, and some of those who knew him have since moved away from Hampshire,” said DI Brunt.
“We’re urging everyone to share our appeal far and wide. For 36 years, Ricky’s loved ones have lived without the truth — it’s time to change that.”

Crimestoppers continues to offer a reward of up to £20,000 for information provided anonymously and exclusively to them that leads to an arrest and conviction. The charity, which operates independently of the police, guarantees total anonymity to anyone who makes contact.

Beth Simpson, South Central West Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, said:

“After more than four decades, someone out there still holds the final piece of information that could help deliver justice for Ricky and closure for his loved ones.

“We know that silence can come from fear or loyalty, but Crimestoppers provides a completely safe way to share what you know without ever revealing your identity. We never ask for personal details, calls or online forms are never traced, and you will remain totally anonymous.”

Anyone with information — no matter how small — is urged to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Tango / 44080416574, or submit details online via the public portal.

Alternatively, information can be provided 100% anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

Only information submitted through Crimestoppers is eligible for the £20,000 reward, which expires on 1 January 2026.