£20,000 reward for information over murder of 7-year-old in Huddersfield
Last updated 2nd May 2025
People in Huddersfield are being urged to come forward to help, after a 7-year-old boy was murdered in the town.
Joe McCafferty was having a sleepover at his aunt's house 28-years-ago when a serious fire happened.
Crime stoppers are offering up to £20,000 for any information in solving the murder.
A statement from west Yorkshire Police said:
"The communities of Huddersfield are being urged to come forward with any information about the murder of a local young boy, as detectives launch a new appeal 28 years after his death in a house fire.
"The appeal features a new video from Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Damian Roebuck in Haywood Avenue, where, on the evening of 2 May 1997, seven-year-old Joe McCafferty went for a sleepover at his aunt’s house.
"Just hours later, a serious fire broke out at the property after an accelerant was poured through the letterbox of the front door and set alight.
"Joe was taken to hospital along with his brother Nicky, but was sadly pronounced deceased a short time later.
"The new appeal is being backed by an enhanced reward from the independent charity Crimestoppers, who are offering up to £20,000 for anyone who provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of any person or persons linked to the incident."
Detective Chief Inspector Damian Roebuck, said:
“From the outset of this investigation we have firmly believed that the answers to this horrendous crime would be found in the Huddersfield area.
“It is now 28 years since Joe’s life was taken so cruelly and so suddenly, and we remain committed to finding those responsible, so Joe’s family can get the justice that they deserve.
“My message to the people of Huddersfield is clear – if you have any information about who was responsible for the fire then please come forward - either to my team or to the independent charity Crimestoppers, who are offering an enhanced reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
“Joe's family have waited a very long time to find out who was responsible for his death. If you can help to provide those answers then now is the time to come forward and tell us what you know.”
Gemma Gibbs, Crimestoppers Regional Manager for Yorkshire & Humberside, said:
“At Crimestoppers, we understand the deep pain and heartache that comes from the loss of a loved one, especially in such tragic circumstances. We encourage anyone who holds even the smallest piece of information to come forward. Your courage to speak up can help bring justice for Joe McCafferty and closure for his family after these long years. Remember, you can share what you know anonymously, and your voice can make a difference."