After more than three decades, the mysterious murder victim known as “the woman with the flower tattoo” has finally been identified. The woman, who had been brutally stabbed multiple times, was discovered against a grate in a river in Antwerp, Belgium on June 3, 1992. Despite extensive efforts by the police, her identity remained unknown, leaving investigators and the community perplexed.

The breakthrough in this cold case came earlier this year when Belgian, Dutch, and German law enforcement agencies collaborated on a joint operation to reexamine the evidence and explore new leads. Their dedication and perseverance paid off when they successfully identified the victim as Rita Roberts, a 31-year-old woman who had relocated to Antwerp from Cardiff in the same year she was tragically killed.

What made Rita Roberts stand out amongst countless other unidentified victims was the distinctive tattoo on her left forearm. The tattoo depicted a black flower with vibrant green leaves, accompanied by the name “R’Nick” inscribed underneath. This unique marking played a crucial role in eventually unraveling her identity.

The clothing Roberts was wearing when she was found has been kept on file
INTERPOL/PA

The investigation into Rita Roberts’ murder had initially hit a dead-end, leaving her family and loved ones without closure for over three decades. However, with the recent identification, they can now begin to seek justice and find solace knowing her name will no longer be forgotten.

Authorities are now intensifying their efforts to identify Rita Roberts’ killer. They have reexamined the case files, collected new DNA evidence, and are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in solving this heinous crime. The renewed investigation is raising hopes that justice will finally be served and that the perpetrator will be held accountable for their actions.

The identification of Rita Roberts serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of ongoing efforts in cold cases. It highlights the tireless work of law enforcement agencies and their dedication to bringing closure to grieving families. As the investigation progresses, the hope for justice grows stronger, offering a glimmer of hope for victims and their loved ones who have long awaited answers.