A photo showing the murder weapon used by Lord Lucan to kill the family nanny, Sandra Rivett, in 1974 has surfaced for the first time. The image reveals two pieces of lead piping placed on a blood-stained mailbag, which was used to hide Rivett’s body after the brutal attack. The photo was taken inside Scotland Yard’s Black Museum 41 years ago and has resurfaced as the 50th anniversary of the crime approaches.
Lord Lucan disappeared following the murder, sparking a global sensation. The BBC is set to air documentaries exploring the theory that Lucan may have evaded capture and started a new life in Australia with the help of wealthy associates. Investigators originally believed that Lucan had intended to kill his wife but mistakenly attacked Rivett instead.
The photo was taken by television crime programme producer Sandy Kaye during her work on a documentary series. Kaye expressed shock at the lack of gloves worn by the handling officer in the photo, indicating a possible lack of care in preserving evidence. She emphasised the historical significance of the image, stating, “It’s such an important part of British crime history.”
Kaye recalled the moment she took the photo in 1983 and highlighted her frequent visits to the Black Museum for her investigative work. She noted the unique access she had to the artefacts related to the Lucan case, including the bloodstained mailbag and metal rods believed to be the murder weapons. The photo remained hidden for over four decades before Kaye decided to share it with the world.
In her career, Kaye produced special documentaries about the Black Museum that received acclaim from Scotland Yard officials. She even donated money to help open a new museum for the public, although it remains closed to this day. Kaye speculated that Lucan managed to escape with the help of influential friends, reflecting on the enduring fascination with the case five decades later.
Neil Berriman, the son of Sandra Rivett, has sought information about the murder weapon and the missing mailbag. Despite the passage of time, the investigation into Rivett’s death remains open. The Met Police stated that any new information or leads would be carefully considered to advance the case.
The discovery of the photo has reignited interest in the infamous Lord Lucan case, shedding new light on a dark chapter in British crime history. As the mystery surrounding Lucan’s disappearance continues to captivate the public, the photo serves as a chilling reminder of the tragic events that unfolded in 1974.