Four years ago, Valerie Kneale was a patient in a hospital in Blackpool when she was “subjected to a horrific attack that ultimately led to her demise.” Despite a protracted investigation, her murderer has not been identified. And police are now urging anyone with information to come forward.
A reward of £20,000 is being offered for information leading to the capture of the assailant of a woman who was killed after being assaulted while a patient in a hospital in Blackpool.
On November 16, 2018, Valerie Kneale, 75, passed away in the stroke unit of Victoria Hospital.
A post-mortem examination revealed that she had died from a hemorrhage caused by an internal injury that was not medically related, prompting Lancashire Police to initiate a murder investigation.
A healthcare professional was detained in March 2021 on suspicion of murder, rape, and sexual assault but was not charged.
More than four years after Ms. Kneale’s murder, Crimestoppers is asking anyone with knowledge to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Jill Johnston stated that the force remains “fully committed” to the investigation and expects that the monetary reward will help “provide that crucial piece of information that will help solve the case.”
“For four years, Valerie’s family has been devastated by her demise – they want and deserve justice,” she said.
“Her murder is genuinely tragic and heartbreaking. She was hospitalised and assaulted.”
DCI Johnston added: “We know someone has had this on their conscience for more than four years now. Do the proper thing. Step forward and speak with law enforcement; assist us in solving this heinous crime.
The sexual assault of a healthcare worker on the stroke unit. Also additional allegations of severe sexual assaults against two patients, were reported to the police last year.
They continue to collaborate with Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to “ensure patient safety.”
