Detectives have launched a new investigation into the murder of Melanie Hall, a 25-year-old woman who vanished from a nightclub in Bath in 1996, with hopes that artificial intelligence will help identify her killer. Her remains were discovered in 2009, wrapped in rope and bin bags near the M5 motorway in Gloucestershire.
The case, one of the longest-running murder investigations in the UK, has remained open for nearly 30 years. Avon and Somerset Police have begun a comprehensive review, digitising 90 crates of evidence to analyse using modern technology. A pool of under 100 persons of interest has been reduced to fewer than 20, and officers are re-interviewing alibi witnesses.
Detective Chief Inspector Ben Lavender, leading the cold case team, believes answers lie in the archives. He stated that AI advancements could provide new ways to examine the data, including CCTV footage, emails, and witness statements. In tests, AI reviewed evidence from 27 complex cases in 30 hours—a task estimated to take a detective 81 years.
Melanie was last seen at 1.10am on June 9, 1996, sitting on a stool near the dancefloor of Cadillacs nightclub. A witness reported seeing her at 1.20am chatting to a man in a brown silk shirt, black trousers, and black shoes. She left at 1.45am with the man following. Police have issued a new colour e-fit of this individual and are appealing for information.
Melanie's remains were found in October 2009, 28 miles north of Bath, near a sliproad onto the M5 at junction 14. She was wearing a pale blue silk dress, black suede mules, a cream jacket, and carrying a black satchel—items never recovered. Eleven people have been arrested over the years, but no charges have been brought.
