The murder of a man stabbed after a street party in Glasgow over two decades ago is set to be examined by experts on BBC's Crimewatch with a £20,000 reward for information offered.
Darren Birt was found lying on the road on Calvay Place, Barlanark, in the early hours of Wednesday, August 28, 2002 after having suffered stab wounds.
It's believed the 22-year-old became involved in an altercation at a gathering on Burnmouth Road before he was chased from Edinburgh Road towards Burnett Road and attacked with hammers and knives, reports the Daily Record.
Read more: Police launch murder investigation after 36-year-old man dies of serious injuries
He was rushed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary but died from his injuries a short time later. Police are still searching for his killer over 20 years on.
Three men were charged but never prosecuted, with the murder attracting little media coverage.
Brian Birt, Darren's father, later wrote a book describing his killing as ‘the forgotten murder’ and successfully campaigned for a new investigation.
Detectives relaunched their probe into Darren's murder in March this year and appealed to members of the public who may hold key information.
Now a team of experts from BBC's Crimewatch will examine the case for the first time. A reconstruction of the incident, produced by Crimewatch and Police Scotland's Major Investigations Unit, will be broadcasted.
Residents living close to the crime scene near to Calvay Place and Burnett Road in Glasgow received letters from Police Scotland on Wednesday. Investigators urged locals to watch the BBC reconstruction carefully in the hope it can provide vital information as they bid to crack the case.
Crimestoppers are also offering a £20,000 reward to anyone who contacts them with information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Speaking about the appeal, Detective Chief Inspector Lynsey Watters said: "Darren was only 22-years-old when he was murdered on Wednesday, August 28, 2002.
“His death undoubtedly had an absolutely devastating impact on his family and it is important we do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.
“At the time of Darren’s murder, the public did assist and come forward with information, but I do believe that there are people still out there with information who, for whatever reason, have not spoken to the police.
“With today’s national television appeal, it is hoped that we may reach these people or jog someone’s memory for a detail that might seemed insignificant at the time.
“If anyone out there has information that could assist us in getting justice for Darren, I would urge them to pick up the phone – call police via 101, call the programme or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.”
Calvay Housing Association has residents living in the local area and shared the letter on social media.
A spokesperson said: "We are saddened by the death. We would encourage people to come forward if they have any information and support the police with their enquiry."
Police Scotland and the BBC were approached for comment.
READ NEXT -
Carer stole Cambuslang pensioner's bank card and swiped more than £11,000
Glasgow family who care for daughter with cerebral palsy spend nights in library to keep warm
Glasgow man killed neighbour in deliberate fire started so he could get a house move
Glasgow crowdfunder launched to raise money for city's Nelson Mandela statue
Glasgow shopping arcade to be demolished soon as housing plans kick off
