Man Arrested After 80-Year-Old Woman Found on Fire in Watford

An 80-year-old woman was found on fire in a communal area of Caractacus Cottage View in Watford on Monday. Hertfordshire Police said Brenda Raymond sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital, where she remains in a critical condition.

A 33-year-old man from Watford has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in police custody.

Detective Inspector Adam Bridges said the attack was "absolutely horrific" and that officers found Brenda Raymond with significant burn marks. According to the investigation, Raymond was doused with a flammable liquid and set on fire by an unknown male after returning home. Police are also investigating a separate incident involving a neighbouring building that was targeted with a flammable liquid.