Cold Case Reopened as Police Launch Murder Investigation
A murder investigation has been officially opened into the death of a woman whose body was discovered in a bathtub a quarter of a century ago. Rhonda Anderson, a 29-year-old shop and bar worker, was found at her home in the Briar Hill area of Northampton on 8 July 2000.
An inquest held later that same year concluded her death was a tragic accident, caused by electrocution from a radio that had fallen into the water. However, that ruling has now been dramatically overturned by detectives following a major case review.
New Information Sparks Major Case Review
The case has been re-examined by the East Midlands Special Operations Unit Major Crime Team after new information came to light during the summer of 2025. This fresh evidence prompted police to formally upgrade the case to a murder investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Torie Harrison, of Northamptonshire Police, stated: "Rhonda died at home in July 2000, when an investigation took place and a report prepared for the coroner, who ruled at the conclusion of an inquest that Rhonda’s death was accidental."
"However, new information has come to light this summer which has prompted us to re-examine what happened to Rhonda and a formal murder investigation is now underway."
Appeal for Information After 25 Years
Officers are now making a direct appeal to the public for help. They are keen to speak to any of Rhonda's old friends or anyone who knew her at the time of her death, believing they may hold crucial information.
DCI Harrison emphasised the passage of time but remained hopeful: "A significant amount of time has passed since Rhonda’s death, but I am hopeful that anyone who may have any information about her life or what may have happened to her will still have clear memories they can share with us."
She urged potential witnesses to come forward regardless of how minor they believe their information to be, adding: "It doesn’t matter how insignificant you think the information you recollect is, we want to hear from you as we explore the circumstances of what happened."
The development has been described as a huge shock for Rhonda’s family, who are being supported by specially trained officers and have requested privacy.
Anyone with information is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 25000536509. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
