TWO men have this been arrested in connection with the death of Shaun James in Cinderford in 2002.
The men, aged 63 and 51 and both from Cinderford, were arrested today – Thursday April 23 – on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and currently remain in police custody.
Shaun James was 32 when he was run over in Steam Mills Road on the evening of 15 December 2002.
Police who investigated the case at the time believed the incident was a hit and run traffic collision, but were unable to identify the driver.
A cold case review of all forensic and witness evidence by the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT), using the benefit of new technology and investigative techniques, together with new information that has come to light over the years, led to it being reclassified as murder.
In December 2014 a reconstruction and appeal was broadcast on the BBC's Crimewatch programme and a £5000 reward was offered for information that leads to a conviction. A further £5000 reward has since been offered by Crimestoppers.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Porter said: "We're clearly at a critical stage in the investigation but it's crucial people still call us with any information they have about Shaun's death.
"The community response has been fantastic but we still need people to come forward and help us.
"Our neighbourhood engagement vehicle will be in Cinderford today if people want to go and speak to a local officer.
"Anyone with information can still call our incident room number 01452 754544."
Police have until the end of the weekend to charge or release the two men.