Coroner's appeal over Rhys's murder

Aug 29 2007 By Mike Hornby

A coroner today urged people with information to come forward as he opened and adjourned the inquest into the death of 11-year-old Rhys Jones.

Liverpool coroner’s court heard that Rhys was shot last Wednesday close to his home in Croxteth.

The youngster was shot in the back of the neck as he was walking across the car park of the Fir Tree Public House on his way home from a football game.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Kelly, the senior investigating officer for Merseyside Police, told the court: "It is important to say we have had a significant response from members of the public.

"But there are people who hold key information and no doubt know the identity of the offender and we would urge those people to come forward."

Rhys was identified by his full name, Rhys Milford Jones.

Liverpool coroner Andre Rebello said: "This is a tragedy which has not only destroyed a family but it has destroyed a community and it has caused national public outrage.

"For any right thinking person or any right thinking family it would be difficult to live with any knowledge of Rhys’ death without sharing the information."

In a message to Rhys’ parents Melanie, 41, and Stephen, 44, who were not at court, Mr Rebello said: "I can’t say anything to make you feel any better but you remain in our thoughts and prayers.

"Until somebody is charged and convicted there will never be any even partial closure.

"Somebody out there holds the information and they must come forward."

Mr Rebello released Rhys’s body back to his family for funeral and adjourned the hearing until October 16.