Teacher ‘killed in street along with pensioner who tried to save her’

A woman who was killed in a quiet street alongside a pensioner who reportedly tried to save her has been named as schoolteacher Amy Appleton.

The 32-year-old was killed outside a semi-detached house in Crawley Down, a village in West Sussex, on Sunday.

She was reportedly a teacher at Copthorne Church of England Junior School.

Reports suggest the other victim, Sandy Seagrave, 76, had tried to come to the aid of Mrs Appleton.

A 37-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder is in a “very unstable condition” in hospital.

He was found injured inside the property.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Geldart confirmed it was not a knife attack and said one of the victims was known to the suspect.

A marked police car and uniformed officers were outside the house in Hazel Way on Christmas Eve, as people laid flowers and paid their respects.

Retired milkman Tony Jones, 74, described Ms Seagrave as a “lovely lady” who did “not deserve this”.

A 70-year-old grandmother, who has lived in the area all her life but did not want to be named, said: “It is just so sad. It feels like she was walking in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“It has always been a friendly and safe area. I have never felt scared walking out at night.”

One passer-by who left flowers said: “It is a horrible thing to have happened. Who would have believed this could happen in a sleepy place like this?”

A candle with the message “RIP Sandy XX” on its glass holder was placed near a small cuddly toy bear among the collection of flowers, while a red rose had been drawn on the front of a handmade condolence card marked “Amy”.

It read: “To Amy, Rest in peace. You were such a lovely neighbour to us and the rest of the village. We wish the best to all of the family.”

Another card attached to a floral tribute said: “A beautiful lady. Taken far too soon. So many fond memories of Amy growing up and blossoming into a fine young lady. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.”

Residents have turned off their Christmas lights as a mark of respect.

Ms Geldart said: “This is a tragic incident which has led to the death of two local women, one of whom was known to the suspect.

“Members of the public, police and paramedics did all they could to help the victims but sadly the two women died at the scene.

“I extend my heartfelt sympathies to their families, who are being supported by specialist trained officers. I ask that people respect their privacy at this distressing time.”

(c) Sky News 2019: Teacher ‘killed in street along with pensioner who tried to save her’