57-year-old woman dies four days after alleged attack while walking her dog

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A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman died four days after an alleged attack while walking her dog in Suffolk.

Anita Rose, 57, was found lying on a path near Rectory Lane, Brantham by a member of the public at around 6.25am on Wednesday.

She was unconscious after sustaining a serious injury when she left her house at 5 a.m. to walk her springer spaniel, Bruce.

Suffolk Police said in an update on Sunday that Ms Rose, who was being treated in intensive care at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, had since died as a result of her injuries.

A 45-year-old man from the Ipswich area was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder on Saturday while Ms Rose was in intensive care. He has since been rearrested on suspicion of murder.

Ms Rose’s family have asked police to issue the following statement on their behalf: ‘Our mother was well known and loved in the community.

“She was taken from us brutally and far too early and we were robbed of so much time with her.

“She was not only a mother of six, but a grandmother to 13, a long-term partner, a mother-in-law and a special friend to so many.

“Someone, somewhere must know something and we urge them to come forward. We want to thank everyone for their love and support. All we ask is that everyone cherish the time they spend with their family and loved ones.”

In connection with the incident, a 37-year-old woman from the Ipswich area was also arrested yesterday on suspicion of receiving stolen goods.

The couple have since been released on bail, with the condition that they return on October 25, 2024.

Detective Superintendent Mike Brown said: “This is a very serious incident and unfortunately Anita has now succumbed to her injuries.

“The family will continue to be supported by specially trained police officers as part of the investigation.

“Investigations into the exact circumstances of the crime are ongoing, as are investigations into the cause of death. However, I can confirm that the crime scene in Rectory Lane has been recovered.

“Residents should expect a continued police presence over the next few days while the investigation is ongoing. In addition, additional officers will be on site to reassure the population.

“While searches and house-to-house interviews are taking place, we would like to speak to anyone who saw anything on Wednesday that they believe could be of use to the police investigation, as well as anyone who lives in the area and has CCTV or doorbell cameras.”

Police have found her missing Apple iPhone, but Ms. Rose’s bright pink zip-up jacket is still missing.

Anyone with information or knowledge about the incident which could assist police with their investigation should contact Suffolk Police quoting 37/41580/24.