Murder hunt turns to biker rallies

Last Modified: 16 Aug 2007
Source: ITN

Police hunting the killer of a biker who was fatally shot on a busy motorway are targeting motorcycle rallies in a bid to find witnesses.

Gerard Tobin, 35, from south London, was killed in a "well-planned" attack on the M40 in Warwickshire on Sunday afternoon. He had been attending the Bulldog Bash motorcycle festival near Stratford-upon-Avon.

Meanwhile, Rebecca Smith, Mr Tobin's grieving girlfriend, has said his death has left a hole "that can never be filled".

The couple were members of the Hell's Angels London chapter and lived opposite a Harley Davidson dealership in Mottingham where he worked as a mechanic.

In a statement, Ms Smith, 25, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks and love to all that have supported me and our club at this awful time.

"Thank you to all for your kind words, respects, sentiments and tributes. A hole that can never be filled has been left in the lives and hearts of so many. Gerry was my life."

Police have produced leaflets which they will be handing out at biker gatherings and Harley Davidson clubs and events.

The leaflet contains a photograph of Mr Tobin and a picture of the dark Rover 600 series car police want to trace.

This vehicle is thought to have pulled out and followed Mr Tobin and two other bikers on to the southbound carriageway, where Mr Tobin was shot in the back of the head.

Detectives hope bikers who used the A46 and M40 following the Bulldog Bash will get in touch.

Detective Superintendent Ken Lawrence said: "Clearly motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country attend the Bulldog Bash event and we want to target as many potential witnesses as possible.

"The leaflets will be sent to locations throughout the country where motorcyclists gather and we hope the rally organisers will help us by handing them out."

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 01926 415581 or email incidentroom@warwickshire.police.uk.

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