A woman in her 80s is in a critical condition after being found on fire in Watford, with an attempted murder probe underway.
Police have confirmed this evening (November 10) that officers were called to Caractacus Cottage View near the Holywell Estate in West Watford yesterday (November 9) at 12.47pm after the woman was found in a first-floor communal area of a block of flats.
Her injuries have been described as "significant" and she is receiving treatment in hospital.
Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Major Crime Unit, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with the woman and her family, who are being supported by specially trained officers during this extremely distressing time.
“Detectives are currently working at pace to establish how the woman came to sustain her injuries and are currently treating the incident as attempted murder.
“We’re asking anyone with information which may assist us to please come forward."
Police want to hear from anyone who witnessed any "suspicious activity" or saw anyone leaving the area. They also are keen to see any dash cam or CCTV footage from the area.
DI Bridges added: “We appreciate the incident will also have an impact on the wider community. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to approach officers in the area.”
A resident of nearby Moor View told the Watford Observer that a police presence remained outside the flats as of Tuesday evening.
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The 61-year-old said she saw unmarked police cars speeding down the road on Monday and could hear a police helicopter circling.
She described what were then rumours as "horrendous" and said she is "shocked" as the area is generally very quiet.
As of Tuesday evening no arrests have been made.
Police have asked that information be reported online or by calling 101 and quoting crime reference ISR 305 of 9 November, 2026.
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