Police have officially drawn to a close a nearly four-decade-long investigation into the mysterious disappearance of a young Royal Navy sailor in Gibraltar.
A Mystery That Began in 1986
Simon Parkes, an 18-year-old radio operator from Bristol, was last seen alive on 12 December 1986. He had gone ashore while the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious, on which he served, was docked in the British Overseas Territory. He never returned to the ship. His absence was only discovered days later when the vessel arrived back at its home port of Portsmouth, prompting an immediate but unsuccessful manhunt.
Link to a Convicted Killer and Renewed Efforts
The case has long been shadowed by its connection to Allan Grimson, a former petty officer who was serving on HMS Illustrious at the same time. Grimson was later jailed for life in 2001 for the murders of two other young men. While he has consistently denied any involvement in Parkes's disappearance, Hampshire Police have previously investigated possible links as part of their probes into Grimson's crimes.
In recent years, the investigation saw significant activity. After receiving new and credible intelligence, specialist police teams were deployed to Gibraltar in 2019. Further investigative work was carried out at the Town Range car park in August 2023 and again in January 2024. Police have also previously conducted excavations at a local cemetery in the territory.
Case Filed as Full Circumstances Remain Unknown
Despite these extensive efforts, Hampshire Constabulary announced on Tuesday 30 December 2025 that they are now concluding their active enquiries. The case will be placed on file unless fresh information emerges.
Detective Superintendent Adam Edwards stated: "Officers have worked tirelessly to investigate the disappearance of Simon Parkes and to find answers for his devastated family." He confirmed that following a complex investigation, which included advice from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the force is drawing its enquiries to a close.
The full circumstances surrounding what happened to Simon Parkes remain unknown. Police will continue to support the ongoing coronial process.
A Final Plea for Information
The investigation may be dormant, but the plea for information is not. Detective Superintendent Edwards made a direct appeal to the public, particularly those who were on HMS Illustrious in December 1986 or who were in Gibraltar at the time.
"I know it was a long time ago, but if there is anything you remember being strange or out of place please get in touch," he said. "Any small piece of information could really help our investigation."
He emphasised that, as with any cold case, it is never closed indefinitely. "If we get new information that offers new and legitimate investigative opportunities, then we will take further action."
