The Unsolved 1993 Shooting of John Reynolds in Rushden: Help Us Bring Forward the Truth

Tragedy on the Lane: The Murder of John Reynolds

On a quiet October morning in 1993, Rushden, Northamptonshire was rocked by a shocking act of violence. John Reynolds, aged 40, was fatally shot while out walking his two beloved Labradors in a secluded country lane.

More than three decades later, his killing remains one of Rushden’s most haunting cold cases and we refuse to let his story fade into silence.

A Family Man, A Routine Walk, A Life Shattered

John was not a criminal. He was a dog owner, a neighbour, a man going about one of his most ordinary and peaceful routines. On 18 October 1993, he set out early with his dogs—seemingly nothing out of the ordinary—but something terrible happened.

According to the records, he was shot during that walk. The crime stunned the local community of Rushden, a town not used to such sudden bloodshed in its narrow country lanes.

There is no public record of a violent altercation, no confirmed motive, and to this day, no one has been convicted for his murder.

Investigation Then and Now: Why This Case Still Matters

• The case was serious enough to feature on Crimewatch UK, giving the public a direct appeal to come forward.

• Later, a suspect—Elemer Patakfalvi—was arrested and charged, but the prosecution dropped the case.

• Despite this setback, Northamptonshire Police remain publicly committed to seeking justice for John.

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Modern forensic science has leapt forward since 1993: DNA profiling, enhanced ballistics, re-examined case files. There is every reason to believe that this case could be re-opened in earnest, with fresh evidence or new witnesses making the difference.

Why We Must Keep John’s Story Alive

John Reynolds was more than a victim. He was a husband, a friend, a dog lover—a part of the Rushden community. His death should not be just another statistic. His family deserves closure. His memory deserves respect.

Every unsolved case like this chips away at public trust: how many more families are still waiting? How many cases lie dormant, waiting on someone’s memory, someone’s courage, someone’s voice?

Your Help Could Bring the Breakthrough

We need you—your eyes, your memories, your willingness to speak up.

• Do you remember that morning in 1993?

• Did you live or walk near the lane John was killed on?

• Did you hear shots or see something unusual?

• Do you know someone who knew John, or suspects who were never questioned?

Your account—no matter how small—could reopen doors for investigators.

How to Take Action

1. Contact Northamptonshire Police – Report any detail, no matter how long ago.

2. Reach out to our Charity – We can support you to make a safe, confidential report.

3. Share John’s Story – Talk about him in your community, on social media, at local meetings. Raise awareness.

4. Support Forensic Review – Help us campaign for renewed forensic examination of case evidence and DNA testing where possible.

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John Reynolds deserves justice. His story still matters. The truth is out there, with someone who’s never spoken, or with someone who forgot how important their memory could be.

Help us find that truth. Help us bring justice for John.

It's Time 4 Justice. It's Time for Truth.