Police believe some kind of liquid was sprayed on her before she was set on fire as she returned home.
An 80-year-old woman who was set on fire outside her flat has been identified by detectives.
Brenda Raymond, who is in hospital in a critical condition, was found alight in a communal area of a block of flats at Caractacus Cottage View, Watford, just after 12.45pm on Monday.
Police believe some kind of liquid was sprayed on her before she was set on fire as she returned home.
They have taken the unusual step of publicly naming the survivor of an attack in a bid to trace whoever was behind the violence.
Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Major Crime Unit, 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.
“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.
“Someone out there knows something. You may have witnessed suspicious activity, heard a conversation, noticed unusual behaviour, or captured something on CCTV or dashcam 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 inquiries, please come forward. Your information could be crucial in helping us find answers and bring those responsible to justice.”
Detectives say an accelerant liquid was also poured through the letterbox of a nearby flat.
They want to hear from any witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously that afternoon, anyone wearing a mask, or anyone fleeing towards nearby woodland, as well as anyone who saw someone buying flammable liquid that day or shortly before.
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