Detectives investigating the death on an elderly woman in Exeter have arrested a man on suspicion of murder.
Police were on Sunday lunchtime (April 19) called to a property off Topsham Road after receiving a report of a concern for the welfare of a woman at the address.
When the emergency services arrived at the Millbrook Lane address, they found an elderly woman dead at the property, prompting police to cordon off the area.
Police said an elderly man from Exeter was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Detective Inspector Guy Biggar, who is leading the investigation, said it is thought the elderly man and woman are known to each other.
He said police were not looking for anyone else in connection to the woman’s death, and that enquiries were ongoing to trace her next of kin.
The detective said extra police would be in the area while investigations into the woman’s death continue.
DI Biggar said: “Officers are carrying out enquiries to establish what happened and a cordon has been set up to allow for a thorough investigation of the scene.
“It is believed that the man and the woman were known to each other.
“I would like to reassure the community that this is being treated as an isolated incident, and we are not seeking anyone else in connection to the death.”
He added: “Members of the public will see an increased police presence in the area, and we would encourage anyone, if they have any concerns, to contact officers from the local neighbourhood policing team.”
Police were called to Millbrook Lane, off Topsham Road, shortly after 12.30pm on Sunday.
The force confirmed an elderly man had been arrested and was being held in police custody on suspicion of murder.
Investigating officers want to hear from anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage that could help police.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “Detectives have launched a murder investigation into the death of a woman in Exeter.
“Officers were called to a report of a concern for welfare for a woman at an address on Millbrook Lane, Exeter, at around 12.40pm on Sunday 19 April.
“Officers and paramedics attended, and an elderly woman was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“Enquiries are ongoing to locate her next of kin.’
The force spokesperson added: “An elderly man from Exeter has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody at this time.”
If you have information to help police, report it through the force website, or call 101, quoting reference number 50260097605.
