Murder Maps

S04E04 Sheperds Bush Murders

On Friday, August 12, 1966, three police officers were shot dead in Shepherds Bush by Harry Roberts and two accomplices. Following the murders, a massive manhunt was launched. One of the suspects was apprehended within hours, while another was caught four days later in Glasgow. Meanwhile, Roberts evaded capture for three months, hiding in Thorley Wood near Bishop Stortford and relying on his military skills to survive. The shocking nature of the killings drew significant media attention, especially since they occurred just six months after the death penalty was abolished, prompting many to demand its reinstatement. Two of the attackers died in prison, but Roberts was eventually released after serving 48 years.