WESTPORT — The unsolved murder of a 38-year-old Westport woman, whose body was found beneath a pile of burning trash behind a Main Street convenience store more than three decades ago, remains an “active” investigation, police said Tuesday.

Police said they currently are using “advanced” investigative techniques to evaluate the inquiry into the May 24, 1989, homicide of Joan Wertkin, the mother of two children.

As a result, according to Tuesday’s announcement, anyone who might have information about the open case is asked to contact police.

The bizarre case, which shocked the town and made headlines around the state, unfolded when a fire was reported behind the commercial complex at 337 Main St., housing the Merritt Country Store and other outlets, at about 11 p.m. that rainy night.

The burned body of a woman — later identified as Wertkin — was found behind the stores “near the wood line,” police said.

Wertkin had left her home earlier in the evening to go grocery shopping, but did not return home. She later was reported missing by her husband.

Wertkin’s car — a white 1988 BMW 325 — was found parked in front of the Main Street shopping center.

Investigators, however, do not believe that she drove herself to that location, police said Tuesday.

Press reports at the time indicate that Wertkin initially may have been strangled with a rope or cord.

Wertkin was described by police as “a petite white female with long dark hair and a thin build.” On the night she was killed, Wertkin reportedly was wearing a dark-colored running suit made of velour-type material, police said.

Anyone with information about the Wertkin case is asked to contact police Lt. Jillian Cabana and Detective Philip Restieri at 203-520-3831 or coldcasetips@westportct.gov.