A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a 68-year-old woman who was found stabbed at her home in a quiet Hampshire village.
Tragic discovery in Cheriton
Emergency services were called to a cottage off the B3046 in Cheriton, Hampshire, at 10.31am on Friday, 9 January, following a report concerning the welfare of a woman. Upon arrival, officers discovered Gilly Livie with serious injuries inside the property.
Despite the immediate efforts of police and paramedics at the scene, Ms Livie could not be saved and was pronounced dead at her home. A post-mortem examination later confirmed she died from a stab wound to the neck.
Second victim found at scene
Police also located a 39-year-old man at the same address, who was known to Gilly Livie. The man was found with injuries to his neck and leg, which were initially described as life-threatening.
He was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. Authorities have confirmed he is now in a stable condition, though he remains under medical care.
Tributes to a 'kind and happy' community member
Neighbours have paid heartfelt tributes to Ms Livie, describing her as a "lovely lady" who was a keen runner and an animal lover with dogs and chickens.
"She was involved in the community in her own way," one neighbour told the Telegraph. "They kept themselves to themselves. She was very kind and very happy."
Police appeal for information
Leading the investigation, District Commander Chief Inspector Korine Bishop sought to reassure the local community. "We know this incident will cause great shock," she stated. "I want to reassure people we have a large number of officers working hard on this investigation."
Chief Insp Bishop added that while enquiries are ongoing, police do not believe there is any further or ongoing risk to the wider community. She confirmed that officers are not currently looking for any other third party in connection with the death but are investigating with an open mind.
Police have issued a specific appeal for residents in Cheriton to check any private CCTV footage recorded between 11pm on Wednesday, 8 January, and 11am on Thursday, 9 January.
Anyone with information or footage is urged to submit it via the dedicated online portal or by calling 101, quoting reference number 44260012077.
