Search goes on for murder suspect

A reward of up to £5000 is being offered to anyone with information that leads to the arrest of 53-year old Rotherham man John Heald.

The murder suspect is wanted by Humberside police in connection with the death of Bei Carter on July 18, and by South Yorkshire Police, linked to a serious offence in Sheffield on July 13.

The forces are conducting a joint search across Humberside, and South and West Yorkshire. Potential sightings of John Heald have been reported in the Wath-upon-Deane, Mexborough, Rawmarsh and Swinton areas to date.

Specialist officers are carrying out detailed investigations and are responding to all potential sightings.

Mr Heald is 5ft 11ins tall, of slim build, with blue eyes and short mousey brown hair. His right ear is pierced and he has tattoos on his hands and arms.

On his left hand he has a horse and dots on his knuckles and on his right hand he has dots on his knuckles. On his right arm he has a mermaid and an eagle.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Baldwin from Humberside Police is leading the murder investigation.

He said: “We are working closely with South Yorkshire Police in the search for John Heald whilst at the same time actively pursuing the murder investigation.

“We can confirm that Bei Carter died as a result of a single stab wound to the chest.

“We have a team of dedicated officers who are working relentlessly to ensure all necessary enquiries are undertaken.

“The impact on the family of Bei Carter is massive and they are understandably struggling to come to terms with what has happened. She was a wife and mother who together with her husband had settled into the local community having re-located to Bridlington about two years ago.

“Both the family and the public should be reassured that no stone will be left unturned in the search for this man.”

Around 150 police officers are working on the search with both mounted and dog sections involved along with specialist officers.

Members of the public are asked to be vigilant and consider their personal safety at all times. Keep doors locked when at home, be aware of your surroundings if you are out and make sure someone knows where you are and when you are due home.”

If you see John Heald call 999 immediately.

Calls can be made to police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively calls can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.