Hunt for West Kirby man's killer continues

Apr 2 2008 by Lorna Hughes, Hoylake and West Kirby News

POLICE have renewed an appeal to find the killers of a West Kirby man shot dead in front of his family five years ago.

Peter Singleton was shot by a masked gunman just after 7.30pm on March 27, 2003, as he stood on Column Road with his girlfriend and three-year-old son.

He suffered injuries to his head and stomach and was taken to Arrowe Park Hospital, where he later died.

As part of the murder inquiry detectives travelled to Scotland, Manchester, the North East and Kent.

They are now asking again for the public’s help to gather more information about a white Vauxhall Astra van used in the murder, and to trace two men seen leaving the scene.

After the shooting, the van sped off along Grange Cross Lane and was found burnt-out shortly afterwards in Carr Lane, Moreton.

Two men of “youthful appearance” wearing dark clothing were seen entering Westry Close from the footpath which leads from Carr Lane, and later ran off in the direction of Millhouse Lane.

DCI Ian Mulcahey, said: “We are certain that Peter was targeted specifically, and we need the assistance of the public to help us with the inquiry.

“Anyone who thinks they can help should be reassured that every piece of information is

investigated and no piece of evidence is too small – as it enables us to continue to build a picture of what happened that night, and help us track down and arrest Peter's killers.”

Detectives are focusing on the whereabouts of the two men after they left the van on Carr Lane and the vehicle’s false registration plates.

DCI Mulcahey added: “The blank registration plates are unique, with a green band around the edge of the plate face. These were made and sold to traders across the UK by one company – Signam Ltd, in Warwick.

“If you are a trader who bought plates from Signam to make up in your shop, you may be able to help us.”

Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.