An anonymous letter has sparked a re-investigation into the death of a teenager more than two decades ago.
At the time of 18-year-old Vernon Searl's death in a motorcycle crash it was believed burglars raiding a house nearby had almost certainly witnessed the crash but left him at the scene to die
But new information contained in the letter sent to police and the Braintree and Witham Times newspaper has led police to now believe the burglars may actually have been responsible for Mr Searl's death.
Braintree police are now re-investigating his death on August 24, 1981.
Mr Searl, of Hilton Way, Sible Hedingham, died in Coggeshall when his 250cc motorcycle mounted a kerb in Colne Road at about 9.45pm and hit a tree.
At the time Det Insp Peter Whent, of Braintree police, said: "There is little doubt in my mind that they were aware of the accident and left the scene. Subsequently, the rider died."
Inspector Mark Harman, who is leading the new investigation, said police are now linking the burglary with Mr Searl's death.
He said it was important the person who sent the letter came forward to speak to them or call them on 01376 330722.
Published Tuesday August 10, 2004
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