'One-in-a-million' woman, 61, named as murder victim as second fights for life

03 March 2024 , 17:52

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Wendy Francis was killed in the incident (Image: West Mercia Police / SWNS)

A woman who died after being found gravely injured alongside one other in Worcester yesterday has been described as "one in a million."

Emergency services dashed to the scene along a residential road near Brickfields, Worcester, last night following the death of Wendy Francis, 61. A second woman, aged 39, was also found just after 8.30pm with life-threatening injuries and was rushed to hospital.

West Mercia Police confirmed a 50-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, and reassured the public it was an isolated incident.

In a statement released today, Wendy Francis' family said: “Wendy will be hugely missed; she was one in a million and much-loved.”

West Mercia Police said: "Although formal identification has yet to take place, with permission of the family we are able to confirm that Wendy Francis, aged 61, sadly lost her life in an incident which is being investigated by West Mercia Police.

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"The family have asked that their privacy is respected now. A 50-year-old man remains in police custody on suspicion of murder and attempted murder."

Witnesses told Worcester News they saw a person being treated on the ground before an ambulance left the scene. There were a large number of police vehicles ambulances and a critical care team present.

Andy Fowler, 62, has lived on the road his whole life and knew the family well. He said: "It has always been a good street. I saw the ambulance working on somebody and the police were holding a blanket around it, so I knew that something serious was going on. I know them very well. They are very good friends of mine. I am very shocked I can't believe it. They are all good people."

Detective Chief Inspector Leighton Harding of the Murder Investigation Unit said: "I understand that incidents of this nature can be alarming, but I would like to reassure the local community that this was an isolated incident and there is no wider risk to the public.

"You will notice a higher police presence in the area in the coming days as officers investigate this incident. Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who has sadly lost her life."

Bradley Jolly