Fresh Hillsborough witness appeal launched by Operation Resolve
Operation Resolve has today released a range of images of potential witnesses at Hillsborough who investigators would like to speak to as part of its ongoing inquiry.
The people shown in the photographs – which are available to view at operationresolve.co.uk – were in close proximity to exit gate C when it opened at 2.52pm on April 15, 1989.
To date, the investigation has taken more than 1,200 statements from fans who approached from the Leppings Lane end of the stadium on the day of the disaster.
However, detectives have so far been unable to trace a small number of people who were in the vicinity of gate C at key times, prompting this fresh appeal for information.
Operation Resolve’s senior investigating officer, detective chief superintendent Neil Malkin, said: “I want to identify these 19 people as I believe they may have information that can assist this inquiry.
“During the course of the investigation we have stated the need for thoroughness and it is really important that I scrutinise every aspect of what happened that day, especially the decisions taken by key people and in some cases the decisions not taken.
“We know that the opening of gate C at 2.52pm was a pivotal moment on that day and these 19 people were all in close proximity. It is only right that we try and identify these people, and if we can, take a statement from them.
“I think it’s important to stress that I believe these people can help the inquiry. I do not suspect them of any wrongdoing. The purpose of this appeal is for Operation Resolve to develop a full understanding of what happened on April 15, 1989.
“Operation Resolve continues to build evidence files which are being submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service. This will conclude at the turn of the year.
“It is they, and they alone, who will make the decisions on whether any individual or organisation will face prosecution. My job is to give the CPS the most accurate account, based on evidence of what happened on April 15, 1989.
“To do this I need to try and identify these people and I would be grateful for the public’s support in doing so. I would urge the public to view the images and if they recognise anyone, please get in touch.
“The images can be viewed on the Operation Resolve website, operationresolve.co.uk. If you recognise anyone, please call us on 0800 0 283 284 or complete an online contact form.
“I have a team of staff in place who will deal with witnesses sensitively, as we understand how difficult some people may find this. The Operation Resolve website also contains useful contacts should members of the public require welfare assistance.”