Scientists want to trace descendants of a Leicestershire-born murderer, whose brutal killings fuelled speculation that he was Jack the Ripper. Frederick Deeming, from Ashby-de-la-Zouch, was hanged in Australia in 1892 after murdering two wives and four of his children. A skull on display at Old Melbourne Gaol is thought to be Deeming's or that of notorious outlaw Ned Kelly.
Researchers hope DNA samples will prove if the skull belongs to either man. However, the scientists need DNA samples from documented descendants to compare with DNA extracted from the skull.
You can learn more in a story on the BBC News web site at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-12162154
My thanks to Tony Hall for telling me about this story.
