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Man arrested on suspicion of murder dies days after elderly woman stabbed in Bright Ridge, Southborough

14:34, 03 September 2024

updated: 06:54, 04 September 2024

Additional reporting by Elli Hodgson

Neighbours told of their shock after a man suspected of murdering an elderly woman died soon after.

Police and paramedics were called to a disturbance in Bright Ridge in Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells, at around 11pm on Saturday (August 31).

There was a large emergency presence at the scene of the crime the following day.
There was a large emergency presence at the scene of the crime the following day.

They found two people with stab wounds - an 82-year-old woman and 24-year-old man.

The pensioner was pronounced dead at the scene while the man, who himself had sustained serious injuries, was arrested on suspicion of murder.

He was taken to hospital but died this morning (September 3).

A neighbour who knew them both told KentOnline today: “Everyone has been so supportive.

Police at the scene in Southborough.
Police at the scene in Southborough.

“I am very shocked and it’s come as a surprise to hear what has happened.

“It’s a lot to take in.

“Everyone has pulled together.”

Mother Kimberley Godsall, 41, has lived in Bright Ridge Southborough for a year.

She said: “The community is feeling very shocked by it all. It’s a very small community and it is not something you would expect to happen around here.”

Kimberley said she did not know the family but felt for them.

“I feel very sad for the family involved. It’s obviously not something you would want to happen to anyone.”

Police in Bright Ridge in Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells, after a woman in her 80s was killed
Police in Bright Ridge in Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells, after a woman in her 80s was killed

Len Fermor, 84 who has lived in Bright Ridge, Southborough for over 50 years said: “it’s very sad to hear, and it’s usually such a quiet area and most people get on.

“It’s not nice to go that way.”

Another resident added: “We are all very shocked but the whole committee is coming together.

“We really appreciate the incredible response of the emergency services and their support.”

An investigation into both deaths will now be led by the coroner, with the assistance of Kent and Essex police’s serious crime team will assist

Both of those involved were known to each other and police are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

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