John Cooper (serial killer)

John Cooper (1944 – 2011), also known as the "Pembrokeshire Murders Killer," was a Welsh serial killer. He was convicted in 2011 of two double murders committed in Pembrokeshire, Wales, in the 1980s.

Early Life and Crimes: Cooper had a history of criminal activity prior to the murders. He was known for burglaries and armed robberies in the Pembrokeshire area.

The Murders:

• Richard and Helen Thomas (1985): Richard and Helen Thomas were shot dead at their farmhouse in Scoveston Park. Their deaths remained unsolved for years.

• Peter and Gwenda Dixon (1989): Peter and Gwenda Dixon were shot dead while walking along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Again, the case went cold.

Re-Investigation and Forensic Breakthroughs: The case was reopened in 2006. Advances in forensic science, particularly DNA profiling, played a crucial role in linking Cooper to the crimes. Minute traces of DNA found at the crime scenes matched Cooper's DNA profile.

"Bullseye" Game Show Appearance: In 1989, shortly after the Dixon murders, Cooper appeared on the British television game show Bullseye. This appearance proved to be a significant piece of evidence in the prosecution's case. Facial mapping experts analyzed footage from the show, comparing Cooper's appearance to an artist's impression of the coastal path killer.

Trial and Conviction: The evidence presented at Cooper's trial included DNA matches, ballistics analysis linking the gun used in the Thomas murders to Cooper, witness testimony regarding Cooper's knowledge of the murder locations, and the facial mapping analysis from the Bullseye footage. In May 2011, Cooper was found guilty of the murders of Richard and Helen Thomas, and Peter and Gwenda Dixon. He was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Impact and Legacy: The John Cooper case is notable for the significant role that advancements in forensic science played in solving the cold cases. The "Bullseye" game show appearance also highlights the unexpected ways in which evidence can surface in criminal investigations. The case has been the subject of documentaries and a television drama, bringing renewed attention to the crimes and their impact on the victims' families.