A male suspect faces charges related to the killing of a woman with seven children who disappeared from the West Midlands in 1998. The accused, Trevor Dunkley, aged 66, has been formally accused in connection with the death of Patricia Lashley, who was last sighted at her residence on Hall Street in Dudley in September 1998, as reported by West Midlands Police on Thursday.
The police force stated that Dunkley has been detained pending his appearance at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Monday. Authorities are providing assistance to Ms. Lashley’s family and have requested additional information from individuals who were acquainted with her during her disappearance.
Known to friends as Pat or Jade, Ms. Lashley was 33 years old when she vanished and had associations with Newcastle, London, Wales, and Scotland. Additionally, she used the aliases Vanessa and Tricia, along with the last name Bradford.
Investigators mentioned that Ms. Lashley relocated to Dudley in the mid-1990s and frequented the No Limits club and other local pubs. It is believed that she and Trevor Dunkley were acquainted with each other.
Detective Inspector Michelle Cordell emphasized the importance of information from anyone who may have interacted with Patricia or Trevor Dunkley. She stated, “We know she was quite well-known in both Dudley town center and Oldbury. If anyone recalls any details or believes they possess information that could assist our investigation, please reach out without delay.”
Cordell continued, “Even if you previously communicated with us when Patricia went missing, we encourage you to contact us again as we strive to gather as much information as possible to aid her family in finding closure after nearly three decades.”
Individuals with more details can contact 101 and reference log 3984 dated July 7.
