Police continue to hunt for killer of Widnes dad, Wayne Basnett (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Widnes murder hunt continues

4:35pm Thursday 7th March 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

POLICE are still hunting for Christie O’Connor, a man they wish to question about the murder of Widnes dad Wayne Basnett.

Officers are continuing their investigation into the death, after the man accused of his killing was freed today.

Michael Eves, aged 25, from Speke, was found not guilty of murder by a jury, following a six-week trial at Chester Crown Court.

The jury failed to reach a verdict on an alternative charge of manslaughter.

Today, the prosecution announced they would not proceed with any further charges against Eves.

Dad-of-three Mr Basnett, of Mayfield Avenue, Hough Green, was shot in the head in Hale village, shortly after midnight, on December 22, 2010.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “No individual has been convicted in respect of his murder, and the police file will therefore remain open.

“Any new lines of enquiry or information offered to police in connection with Mr Basnett′s death, will be followed up.

“Police are continuing to appeal for information regarding the whereabouts of Christie O′ Connor, with whom they wish to speak in relation to this incident."

Anyone with information can call Cheshire Police on 101.