Woman, 80, found on fire in Watford pictured in appeal for 'anyone who heard screams'

Detailed summary

Police are appealing for anyone who may have heard screams or shouting shortly before Brenda Raymond, 80, was found on fire at a block of flats in Watford

An 80-year-old woman who was found on fire at a block of flats has been pictured as police investigate an attempted murder.

Hertfordshire Police is appealing for anyone who may have heard screams shortly before emergency services were called to Caractacus Cottage View in Watford, where Brenda Raymond was found with life-threatening injuries on Monday afternoon.

She was taken to hospital for treatment, where she remains in a critical condition, police said.

Detectives believe Brenda was attacked as she returned home, and that an accelerant may have been used to deliberately set her on fire. Evidence at the scene also suggests a flammable liquid may have been poured through the letterbox of another property in the area.

Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Major Crime Unit, said Brenda suffered "horrific injuries" in an "appalling and deeply distressing attack" which saw her set alight outside her own home.

Brenda's name and photo have been released with the support of her family in the hope that someone will come forward with information about what happened to her.

Hertfordshire Police is appealing for anyone who "heard screams, shouting, or any disturbance" shortly before emergency services were called to the scene at 12.47pm on Monday.

Detectives are especially keen to hear from those who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area between 10am and 2pm, or knows anyone who purchased flammable liquid on or before November 9.

Witnesses are also urged to report anyone wearing a face covering, running from the scene or heading towards nearby woodland or footpaths.

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