Family of 80-Year-Old Brenda Raymond Appeal for Witnesses After Watford Fire Incident

The family of an 80-year-old woman who sustained catastrophic, life-threatening injuries after being found on fire in a block of flats in Watford have appealed for witnesses, as detectives continue to investigate an attempted murder.

Brenda Raymond was discovered in a first-floor communal area of a block of flats in Caractacus Cottage View, Watford, at around 12.47pm on Monday, 9 November 2026, following a report to police. She was taken to hospital for treatment, where she remains in a critical condition.

Her family, who are receiving support from officers, have described the incident as devastating and said they are desperate for answers about what happened to her.

In a statement released through police, Brenda's family described her as a beautiful, chatty, fun-loving and much-loved woman who enjoys keeping fit and dancing.

They said the past few days had been extremely distressing and that they were struggling to understand why anyone would want to harm her.

“Someone out there knows something. They know what happened to Brenda,” the family said.

They urged anyone who witnessed something suspicious or has information about the incident to contact police, stressing that even details which may appear insignificant could help the investigation.

The family also asked for their privacy to be respected as they deal with the situation.

Detectives are continuing enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident, which is being investigated as attempted murder.

A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life in connection with the investigation.

He has since been released on bail with strict conditions while police enquiries continue.

The arrest is part of the ongoing investigation and does not establish that the suspect is guilty of any offence.

Investigators are appealing to anyone who was in or around Caractacus Cottage View in Watford around midday on Monday, 9 November, and may have seen anything relevant to contact police.

People with information can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously.

Anyone with information should use the reporting details provided by the investigating police force. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers.