A murder investigation is underway in Hampshire after a 68-year-old woman was found stabbed to death in her picturesque thatched cottage. The victim, named as Gilly Livie, was discovered at her home in the quiet village of Cheriton just after 10.30am on Tuesday, 9 January.
Emergency Response and Fatal Discovery
Police officers and an air ambulance raced to the property off the B3046 following the incident. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Mrs Livie was pronounced dead at the scene. A post-mortem examination later confirmed she died from a stab wound to the neck.
A 39-year-old man, who was known to the beloved grandmother, was also found at the address with serious injuries. He was taken to hospital with what were initially described as life-threatening wounds to his leg and neck. He remains in hospital in a stable condition.
Community in Shock Over 'Lovely Woman'
The news has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of Cheriton. Neighbours described Mrs Livie as a kind, gentle, and friendly woman who was involved in village life.
One woman who had known her for a decade told of her devastation. "She was very friendly. I knew her just a little bit but it is just devastating. It's so awful," she said. "She was very gentle, very kind. The whole village is shocked."
Another neighbour added: "I didn't know her particularly well but the few times I met her she was really lovely. She has the house with the gnomes and the chickens which is always so colourful and beautiful."
Mrs Livie was remembered as a keen runner and a doting grandmother, whose grandchildren would often visit her at the cottage.
Ongoing Police Investigation and IOPC Referral
Detectives from Hampshire Constabulary have launched a murder probe. A police cordon remained in place at the home a week after the incident, with forensic officers continuing their work.
Chief Inspector Korine Bishop sought to reassure the local community. "We know this incident will cause great shock in the community. I want to reassure people we have a large number of officers working hard on this investigation," she said.
The force has stated it is not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident at this time, but is working to establish the exact circumstances. Notably, Hampshire Constabulary has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) because police officers had attended the address prior to the fatal incident.
No arrests have been made. Police are appealing for anyone in Cheriton with CCTV to check footage between 11pm on 8 January and 11am on 9 January. Information can be submitted online or by calling 101, quoting reference 44260012077.
