Rapist’s death ends hopes of justice

The death of a paedophile and serial rapist in a British jail has ended hopes that he could be brought to justice for the murder of a 15-year-old Tyrone girl more than 20 years ago.

Robert Howard, aged 71, who died last weekend, was serving life in England for the 2001 rape and murder of a 14-year-old-girl in London.

He was the sole suspect for the disappearance and murder of Arlene Akinson on August 14, 1994.