Murder accused arrested after woman’s death and child’s injury

Surrey Police say a man has been arrested after a woman died and a two-year-old girl suffered serious injuries at an Ashford property.

Officers were called to Woodthorpe Road at 13:15 GMT on Thursday following reports of concerns for their safety.

A woman and girl in their 20s were found at the address with “very serious injuries”.

The woman was later declared dead at the scene and the child was taken to hospital for treatment, a police spokesperson said.

A man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

He was taken to hospital on Thursday but is now in police custody, a police spokesman said.

Police said the victim and suspect were known to each other and they believed there was no widespread threat to the community.

An investigation is being led by Surrey and Sussex Police Major Crime Team and inquiries will continue.

Det Ch Inspector Kimball Eddy said: “This investigation is in its early stages and a team of specialist officers are working around the clock to gather as much information as possible.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victims at this incredibly difficult time.”

The force said anyone with information should contact them or the charity Crimestoppers.

Local councilor Michelle Arnold said the incident happened inside Imtech House.

“A mother lost her life, a child is in hospital with injuries and we are hoping and praying that she recovers,” he said.

He said he and the community were “shocked by this horrific incident”.

“I have not personally contacted the police, but have been contacting residents inside Imtech House and assuring them that everything is fine.

“Stay positive and please let the police do their job with the investigation,” Ms Arnold said.

There is some police presence at the incident site.

Neighbors said they had heard “screaming” before police arrived at the scene.

A neighbor said: “It was chaos. We heard screaming. It was definitely a woman.”

Another said: “I saw a child being taken out and a man being arrested. There was a very large police presence and an air ambulance.”

Lincoln Jope, MP for Spelthorne, said: “The community will naturally be concerned about recent events in Ashford.

“I will, as I hope, continue to support the police in their investigation.”

Additional reporting by PA media.