**Murderer still at large two decades after tragic deaths of ‘inseparable teens’**
A heart-wrenching story of the unresolved murders of two best friends, Rhona Schofield and Vikki Preston, continues to haunt their families and the community twenty years after their tragic deaths. The inseparable duo, likened to sisters for their close bond, perished together in a devastating fire deliberately set in the house they were staying in. Despite multiple suspects being apprehended in connection to the arson attack, no one has been charged with their murders.
The horrific incident unfolded in May 2005 in Higher Broughton, Salford, Greater Manchester, where an unknown assailant ignited foam-filled furniture in the downstairs living areas while Rhona and Vikki were asleep upstairs. The blaze quickly engulfed the house, with temperatures soaring to 1,000 degrees centigrade within minutes, leading to a catastrophic outcome.
Escaping the inferno was impossible, with the fire service being alerted only after a neighbour spotted the flames. The girls, both 19 years old, tragically succumbed to the toxic fumes before any rescue could reach them. The fire destroyed vital forensic evidence, creating a challenging investigation for the authorities.
During the subsequent inquest, details emerged of a tense evening preceding the murders, marked by arguments within the house. Rhona and Vikki were left alone in the property as the situation escalated, leading to the fatal blaze erupting sometime after 3.40am. The inquest concluded that the girls were unlawfully killed, leaving behind shattered families and unresolved questions.
The grieving mothers, Jacqueline Preston and Doreen Schofield, have since tirelessly appealed for justice, with a £50,000 reward still being offered for information leading to the perpetrator. Despite authorities identifying prime suspects, the case remains unsolved, leaving a deep wound in the hearts of those who loved Rhona and Vikki.
As Greater Manchester Police continue their pursuit of the truth, the community remains hopeful for closure and accountability for the heinous crime that stole the lives of two promising young women. The legacy of Rhona and Vikki lives on in the memories of those who knew them, urging a resolution to a chapter of pain and loss that has lingered for far too long.