Brenda Raymond, 80, set alight outside Watford flat
Police are appealing for witnesses after an accelerant was also poured through a nearby letterbox.
Incident → evidence → outcomeAn 80-year-old woman, Brenda Raymond, is in hospital in a critical condition after being set on fire outside her flat in Watford. The incident occurred at Caractacus Cottage View on Monday afternoon, just after 12:45pm.
Detectives from the Major Crime Unit believe a liquid was sprayed on Ms Raymond before she was set alight as she returned home. In an unusual step, police have publicly named the victim to aid their investigation and trace those responsible for the attack.
Appeal for witnesses
Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, who is leading the inquiry, described the attack as "appalling and deeply distressing". He stated that Ms Raymond suffered "horrific injuries" and that her family is "understandably distraught". The family has released her name and photograph to help jog memories and solicit information.
Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity, overheard conversations, noticed unusual behaviour, or captured relevant footage on CCTV or dashcams. Police noted that even seemingly insignificant details could prove crucial.
In addition to the attack on Ms Raymond, detectives revealed that an accelerant liquid was also poured through the letterbox of a nearby flat. Officers are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who saw individuals acting suspiciously, wearing masks, or fleeing towards nearby woodland on Monday afternoon. Information regarding the purchase of flammable liquids around that time is also sought.
Detective Inspector Bridges urged anyone with information to come forward, stating that "Your information could be crucial in helping us find answers and bring those responsible to justice."
Questions this report answers
01What happened to Brenda Raymond?
Brenda Raymond, an 80-year-old woman, was set on fire outside her flat at Caractacus Cottage View, Watford, on Monday afternoon. She sustained horrific injuries and is in hospital in a critical condition.
02What are the police investigating?
Police are investigating the attack on Brenda Raymond, believing a liquid was sprayed on her before she was set alight. They are also investigating an incident where an accelerant liquid was poured through the letterbox of a nearby flat.
03What information are the police looking for?
Detectives are appealing for witnesses who saw suspicious activity, anyone wearing a mask, individuals fleeing towards woodland, or anyone purchasing flammable liquids. They also ask for any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area on Monday afternoon.
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