New Search Urged in Decades-Old Moira Anderson Murder Case
Campaigners are calling for a renewed search for the remains of Moira Anderson, an 11-year-old girl who disappeared from Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, in February 1957. Alexander Gartshore, a convicted paedophile who died in 2006, is the prime suspect in her murder.
New Lead Focuses on Disused Mine Shaft
Sandra Brown, Gartshore's daughter, has come forward with new information suggesting Moira's body may have been disposed of in a disused mine in the Blairhill area of Coatbridge. This information, received from an informant linked to another suspect, James Gallogley, has prompted calls for a fresh investigation of the site.
The Disappearance of Moira Anderson
Moira was last seen on February 23, 1957, after leaving her grandmother's house during a snowstorm. She boarded a Baxter's bus driven by Alexander Gartshore. Gartshore was later jailed for raping a babysitter and has remained the central figure in the unsolved case. Police Scotland has stated any new leads will be assessed.
Campaign for Justice Continues
Sandra Brown has been a long-time advocate for bringing her father to justice. She published the book "Where There is Evil" detailing her beliefs and recently narrated a podcast, "Coatbridge: The Disappearance of Moria Anderson," which she says has brought forth new information. She believes this latest tip could be the last chance to find Moira.
Previous Searches and Suspects
In 2017, a search was conducted in the Monkland Canal, but no remains were found. James Gallogley, a convicted child abuser, named Gartshore as the killer in 1999. Gallogley reportedly confessed to a cellmate that he helped dispose of Moira's body after she died "by accident."
Family's Plea for Closure
Moira's sister, Janet, who lives in Australia, has expressed her desperation for closure. She hopes that Moira's remains can be found so she can receive a Christian burial. The family has never given up hope of finding Moira after nearly 70 years.
Police Response
Detective Superintendent Colin Hailstones stated that any new information received relating to Moira's case will be fully assessed and investigated, giving the family and campaigners hope that this new lead will provide answers.
