Man arrested in connection with attempted murder after 80-year-old woman set on fire

A 33-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life in connection with an attempted murder investigation.

The man, from Watford, remains in police custody following the attack on 80-year-old Brenda Raymond.

Ms Raymond was found still alight and suffering horrific burns on the first floor of a communal area of a block of flats in Caractacus Cottage View on Monday afternoon.

The 80-year-old sustained life-threatening injuries, Hertfordshire Police said, and was rushed to hospital.

Ms Raymond remains in a critical condition following the attack.

Police say the investigation is still "very much ongoing" and detectives from the Major Crime Unit (MCU) continue to appeal for witnesses and information.

Detectives believe she was attacked and deliberately set on fire as she returned home.

They also believe flammable liquid was sprayed on her before she was set alight.

Police are also investigating a second incident where accelerant was poured through the letterbox of a nearby property.

Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Major Crime Unit, said in a statement: "This was an appalling and deeply distressing attack on an elderly woman who suffered horrific injuries after being set alight outside her own home.

"Our thoughts very much remain with Brenda and her family as we continue to do everything we can to find out what happened and who is responsible.

"Her family are understandably distraught and have taken the step of releasing her name and photograph to help jog people’s memories around this distressing and highly unusual incident.

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"Someone out there knows something. You may have witnessed suspicious activity, heard a conversation, noticed unusual behaviour, or captured something on CCTV or dash cam footage without realising its significance.

"Please do not assume that what you know is too small or unimportant to tell us about. It could be a seemingly insignificant piece of information that provides investigators with the breakthrough they need.

"If you know anything about what happened to Brenda or think you may have information that could assist our enquiries, please come forward. Your information could be crucial in helping us find answers and bring those responsible to justice."

Police are keen to speak to anyone who saw "someone acting suspiciously in or around Caractacus Cottage View" between 10am and 2pm on Monday 9 November.

They are also looking for information regarding someone "wearing a face covering or balaclava in the area, anyone running from the scene, or anyone who heard screams before emergency services were called".

The force is also urging anyone with CCTV or doorbell camera footage to come forward, or who knows someone who bought flammable liquid on Monday, November 9.

Information can be given on Hertfordshire Police's online portal or on 101, quoting Operation Tibbin.

Alternatively, you can stay 100 per cent anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.