On Monday, 80‑year‑old Brenda Raymond was found burning outside her flat on Caractacus Cottage View in Watford. She was taken to a nearby hospital where she remains in critical condition. The attack left her family in complete shock and they have called for anyone with information to come forward.
Hertfordshire Constabulary arrested a 33‑year‑old man on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. He has been released on bail under strict conditions. Police believe the attackers poured a flammable liquid on Raymond as she returned home around noon and also used an accelerant in a nearby flat’s letterbox, though the two incidents have not yet been officially linked.
In a statement, Raymond’s family expressed their distress and confusion, describing her as “beautiful, chatty, fun‑loving and much‑loved.” They urged the public to respect their privacy during this unimaginably difficult time.
Police decided to publicly name Raymond, with her family’s blessing, hoping that the disclosure would prompt witnesses or anyone with knowledge of the attack to step forward. DI Adam Bridges of the Major Crime Unit said the case was “appalling and deeply distressing” and that investigators were working to determine who is responsible.
Source: The Guardian World
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