Police name 80-year-old woman found on fire at Watford flats as attempted murder investigation continues
An 80-year-old woman who was found on fire in a communal area of a block of flats in Watford has been named by detectives investigating her attempted murder
An 80-year-old woman who was found on fire in a communal area of a block of flats in Watford has been named by detectives investigating her attempted murder.
Brenda Raymond remains in hospital in a critical condition.
Police are releasing her name with the support of her family, in the hope that someone will come forward with information.
Family back appeal
Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Major Crime Unit, said: "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."
He said: "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."
He said: "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."
He said: "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."
What happened
At 12.47pm on Monday 9th November, a call was made to police reporting that a woman had been found on fire in a first-floor communal area of a block of flats in Caractacus Cottage View.
She sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.
Detective Inspector Bridges said: "This was an appalling and deeply distressing attack on an elderly woman who suffered horrific injuries after being set alight outside her own home."
He said: "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."
What detectives believe
Detectives currently believe Ms Raymond was attacked as she returned home.
They think an accelerant may have been used before she was deliberately set on fire.
Evidence recovered at the scene has also indicated that a flammable liquid may have been poured through the letterbox of another address in the area.
Investigators are particularly keen to hear from anyone who:
- Saw anyone acting suspiciously in or around Caractacus Cottage View between 10am and 2pm on Monday 9th November
- Saw anyone wearing a face covering, balaclava or mask in the area
- Saw anyone running from the scene or heading towards nearby woodland or footpaths
- Has dashcam, CCTV, doorbell camera or other video footage covering the area during that period
- Heard screams, shouting or any disturbance shortly before emergency services were called
- Knows of anyone who bought flammable liquid on 9th November 2026 or shortly before
How to get in touch
Information can be reported through a dedicated online portal .
People can also speak to an operator in the force's communications room via online web chat, or call 101 and quote Operation Tibbin.
Anyone wanting to stay anonymous can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or use the untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Detective Inspector Bridges said: "The circumstances surrounding Brenda's injuries will understandably come as a shock to local residents. We want to reassure people that specialist officers are working hard to find out what happened."