Who Really Killed Claire?

Who Really Killed Claire? examines the 1993 murder of 16-year-old Claire Tiltman in Greenhithe, Kent, and the controversial conviction of Colin Ash-Smith, despite strong evidence suggesting the real culprit was serial killer Robert Napper.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2023
Publisher: Waterside Press

In 1993, the brutal murder of 16-year-old Claire Tiltman in Greenhithe, Kent, sent shockwaves across the UK. For nearly two decades, police investigations stumbled, unable to uncover a motive for the seemingly motiveless crime. However, in 2013, a breakthrough came when Colin Ash-Smith, a man already serving a long prison sentence for lesser attacks on young women, was unceremoniously charged with Claire's murder. This case marked one of the earliest instances in the UK where evidence of bad character was used under a controversial new law.

"Who Really Killed Claire?" is a meticulously researched book that delves into the crime, investigation, prosecution, media frenzy, and the belated urgency that led to Ash-Smith's conviction. The author, Alan Jackaman, an experienced investigator, analyzes the circumstantial evidence and raises doubts about the case, suggesting that misplaced gut feelings may have affected the entire investigation.

The book explores the background of the victims, the police investigations, and the evidence presented against Ash-Smith. It sheds light on the flaws in the prosecution's case, including the reliance on circumstantial evidence and the questionable conduct of some investigators. Jackaman also examines the role of the media in shaping public perception and the pressure it exerted on the police to solve the case quickly.

One of the key aspects of the book is its exploration of the predatory serial killer Robert Napper, who was a strong suspect in the case. Despite numerous hallmarks and correlations linking him to the murder, Napper was ignored by the police. Jackaman argues that this oversight was a significant mistake, as Napper had a history of violent offenses and was known to target young women in the area.

The book raises important questions about the justice system, the role of evidence, and the impact of media coverage on criminal investigations. It sheds light on the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in solving cold cases, particularly when there are limited resources and public interest in the case.

"Who Really Killed Claire?" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will interest anyone who has been captivated by the case of Claire Tiltman's murder. It provides a detailed account of the crime, the investigation, and the subsequent legal proceedings, and challenges readers to consider the broader implications of this tragic event.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914603365