Appeal over boy's fire murder 13 years on

Monday marks the 13th anniversary of the death of Joe McCafferty in a house fire in Huddersfield in 1997.

Joe was staying with his aunt at Haywood Avenue, Marsh, when petrol was poured through the letterbox and set alight during the early hours.

He was taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary but lost his fight for life.

Later this year Joe should have been celebrating his 21st birthday.

Police said his family hope that anyone with information that leads them to Joe's killer will come forward.

Det Supt David Pervin from West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Inquiry Team, who is now leading the investigation said: "A little boy lost his life that night and someone is responsible for his death.

"Our inquiries are very much active and we are again calling on the public to help us bring this person to justice. The investigation will not end until the killer is identified and brought to justice.

"Even the smallest piece of information could further the investigation and maybe lead to other avenues that can be explored.

"We know that petrol was poured into the letterbox. This may have been carried in a green plastic petrol container and would make the person or persons carrying it quite identifiable.

"This was a deliberate act and there is clearly a reason behind it. Someone out there knows why this has happened.

"I also make a direct appeal to the person responsible. You have Joe's blood on your hands and I am not sure how you live with yourself."

Anyone with information can contact police on 0845 6060606.