Rose Johnston, 68, was found dead at her home on Ancroft Road in Dovecot, Liverpool, on Saturday, October 4, 2025. A post-mortem revealed she died from blunt force head injuries, sparking an ongoing murder investigation. Her family has issued a tribute, expressing shock and heartbreak over her tragic death.
What Happened
At approximately 12:35 p.m. on October 4, 2025, emergency services responded to reports of an unresponsive woman at her residence on Ancroft Road in Dovecot. Rose Johnston was found dead at the scene, and a subsequent post-mortem confirmed that her cause of death was a blunt force head injury.
Merseyside Police have launched an investigation and are conducting house-to-house inquiries, reviewing CCTV footage, and gathering forensic evidence. Authorities are appealing for anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area, especially in the week leading up to Rose’s death, to come forward.
Who Was Rose Johnston / Background of the Case
Rose Johnston was known for her kind, compassionate, and gentle nature. A long-time tutor in adult education, Rose dedicated many years to helping others. In recent years, she volunteered for the Nugent group, working with individuals with special educational needs. Despite having little for herself, she was always generous, regularly donating to local foodbanks.
Her family described her as private but deeply family-oriented, always putting others before herself. Rose was a sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and she was adored by her loved ones. Her family is struggling to comprehend who would want to harm her in such a brutal way, especially after the many hardships she had already faced in life.
Career, Legacy, or Case Details
Rose’s legacy is one of selflessness, generosity, and kindness. She spent her life giving back to the community, particularly through her work in education and charity. Her family’s tribute highlighted her loving, witty, and intelligent character, alongside her dedication to those she cared about.
The tragic and violent nature of her death has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, and the wider community. The investigation into her murder is still ongoing, with police working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind her death and bring those responsible to justice.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The local community has been deeply affected by Rose’s death, especially considering her reputation as a beloved and caring individual. Social media has been flooded with tributes and expressions of sympathy from those who knew her.
One Facebook user shared: “Rose was one of the kindest people I ever met. It’s heartbreaking to hear this news. My thoughts are with her family during this unimaginable time.”
The hashtag #JusticeForRoseJohnston is circulating as people come together to support her family and help find those responsible for her tragic death.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
Detective Chief Inspector Catherine Walsh is leading the investigation, emphasizing that multiple lines of inquiry are being pursued. Police are encouraging anyone who may have seen Rose during her regular walks around the estate, or anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behavior in the area, to come forward. They are also urging anyone with relevant footage from dashcams or doorbell cameras to contact the authorities.
Local residents have been reassured by the presence of a mobile police station and high-visibility police patrols in the area, providing support and assistance to those with concerns. Walsh assured the public that every effort is being made to identify those responsible for Rose’s death and bring them to justice.
Closing Line:
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact Merseyside Police through their social media desk or call 101, quoting reference 25000817218. Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
