Cold Case of 5-Year-Old Zeynep's Murder Reopened After Nearly 39 Years

Nearly 39 years after the brutal murder of five-year-old Zeynep in Neuenrade, North Rhine-Westphalia, German authorities have reopened the cold case with renewed investigations and public appeal for assistance. Zeynep disappeared from her family home during the night of November 14–15, 1986, and was found dead the next day, having been stabbed and left exposed. The Hagen police and prosecutor's office announced in October that they are re-examining the case using modern forensic technology, focusing on key evidence such as a red pocket knife and synthetic leather motorcycle gloves that are believed to be linked to the crime. Investigators are seeking information from anyone who might recall details from the time, emphasizing the importance of public help in solving this long-standing mystery. To encourage tips, the prosecutor’s office has offered a reward of 5,000 euros for information leading to the capture or identification of the perpetrator. The case will also be featured on the crime program “Aktenzeichen XY... ungelöst” airing this Wednesday at 8:15 PM on ZDF, aiming to generate new leads through media exposure. Zeynep lived with her parents and three siblings in a multi-family house near the forest, and it is speculated that she may have left the apartment on her own and encountered an unknown person in the stairwell or basement area. This renewed investigation marks a significant step in seeking justice for the nearly four-decade-old unresolved child murder case.