Issue 504 – Police launch new investigation into death of Adrian Cooksey

an investigation into the death of Melksham man, Adrian Cooksey, is to be re-opened by Wiltshire Police. He was assaulted in Spa Road, Melksham, near to the Market Place roundabout at approximately 2.45am on Sunday morning of 8th March 2009, and subsequently died from the injuries that he suffered in the assault.

Adrian Cooksey had been out for the evening in Melksham where he visited a number of Melksham pubs with a friend. He had been walking along Spa Road from the direction of Coronation Road and had nearly reached the Market Place when he was assaulted. In November 2009 a man was acquitted at Bristol Crown Court of his manslaughter.
Detective Chief Inspector, Ian Saunders said, “Wiltshire Police are currently re-investigating the assault that led to Adrian Cooksey’s death. As part of this new investigation we need the assistance of the public in order to identify a number of vehicles, the drivers of those vehicles and an individual, who were all in the area of Melksham Market Place at the relevant time.
“These potential witnesses are vitally important and may have seen something significant or be able to add information of value and we urge anyone with information to come forward. Firstly, A man who was seen walking along Spa Road at 2.25am on Sunday morning.
“We would like information on a light coloured four door hatchback car which drove along Spa Road at 2.45am (see photo inside).
“We are keen to identify a vehicle that started its journey by entering the lower end of Spa Road from a side road or driveway at 2.46am and drove towards Bowerhill. CCTV is not clear in respect of this vehicle.
“Also, a separate dark four door hatchback car with silver alloy wheels and a small rear spoiler which travelled along Spa Road at 2.50am that day.
Sector Inspector Dave Cullop said, “The death of Mr Cooksey had a big impact on the communities of Melksham and Trowbridge at the time. As part of the reinvestigation, officers will be conducting further enquiries in the local area, which may lead to a reopening of community concerns. It is however vitally important that these new leads are thoroughly investigated.
“If anyone has any specific concerns they should contact the Neighbourhood Policing Team based at Melksham Police Station for support and advice. During this period of renewed public interest our thoughts are very much with Mr Cooksey’s family and I would appeal for everyone to respect their privacy”.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the incident room directly on 01380 734217 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information may be left anonymously if preferred.