Gibraltar – Detectives in Gibraltar are pursuing a new lead in the 37-year-old case of missing Able Seaman Simon Parkes. The Royal Navy sailor disappeared in 1986 while his ship was docked in the British territory. His family remains hopeful that the latest search, which involves digging up a car park, will bring them the closure they have been seeking for more than three decades.
Parkes is believed to have been murdered by Royal Navy Petty Officer Allan Grimson, a man known as the ‘Frankenstein serial killer’ who may have been responsible for the deaths of up to 20 men. Grimson, who served on the same aircraft carrier as Parkes, was convicted of murdering two young men and is currently up for parole.
In an emotional statement, Margaret Parkes, Simon’s mother, expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing search, acknowledging the years of disappointments while maintaining hope for a breakthrough. The family has endured great difficulty, including the loss of Simon’s older brother to a brain aneurysm. Margaret emphasized the need for closure and answers, recalling her son as a typical, well-liked 18-year-old with no known enemies.
Grimson’s disturbing history includes the murders of other young men, perpetrating heinous acts at different locations around the world. A former colleague revealed that he used a Manchester United season ticket as cover to travel the country, where he sought out young homeless boys in various cities.
The commitment of the authorities in Gibraltar to pursue justice and provide closure for the Parkes family is evident as the search continues. The excavation of the car park and the efforts to uncover new leads indicate a dedication to resolving a long-standing mystery. As the search progresses, the hope for answers and justice remains at the forefront of everyone involved in the case.