Doused in petrol & torched at Christmas – how mum’s murder remains unsolved 30yrs on despite her desperate last words
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DOUSED in petrol and dumped in a churchyard at Christmas, Tracey Mertens was able to use her last breaths to give police key clues before she died. Tragically, despite her bravery, the mum's horrific murder remains unsolved 30 years on. Now police have made a fresh appeal for information in the hope of finally securing justice for Tracey's family.
![[Tracey Mertens was murdered on December 23, 1994]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/life-wrecked-crime-kelly-hill-954797714.jpg?strip=all&w=706)
Detective Inspector Nigel Reid said: "This week marks the 30th anniversary of Tracey’s death – a time that is understandably still very difficult for her family. "Tracey met a violent and horrific death at the hands of her killers. She was so brave and told detectives as much as she could before she died.
![[The mum was bundled into a yellow Ford Escort by two men]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/4866b9dd-4f4c-45b7-a21f-203f9a5059a5.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
“Although extensive enquiries have been completed, including arrests, forensic reviews, and CPS advice, to date no-one has been convicted in relation to the death of Tracey, and the file remains open. “As an organisation, we continue to review undetected investigations and will always act on any new information.
![[Tracey was abducted from her front door]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/794c8355-de28-4e8a-8c68-04215ed3f7ac.jpg?strip=all&w=800)
"Therefore, as Tracey’s family prepares to spend another Christmas day without her, I would appeal to anyone who has any information about Tracey’s death to get in touch.”. The disturbing tale began on December 22, 1994, after Tracey travelled to her former home in Cattells Grove, Birmingham, to collect a benefits book.
![[The mum was driven to Cheshire and set alight]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/life-wrecked-crime-kelly-hill-954797699.jpg?strip=all&w=808)
She initially planned to return to her new house in Rochdale but instead visited her sister-in-law before returning to Cattells Grove for a final time. Just before midday on December 23, the 31-year-old received a knock on the door and was confronted by two men.
![[Daughter Kelly has spoken of her torment]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/life-wrecked-crime-kelly-hill-954797697.jpg?strip=all&w=540)
