Crawley Down: Tributes paid to 'teacher killed with woman who tried to save her'
‘It is a horrible thing to have happened. Who would have believed this could happen in a sleepy place like this’
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The victims at the centre of a double murder investigation in a quiet west-Sussex village have been named locally as 76-year-old Sandy Seagrave and Amy Appleton, 32.
The two were found outside of a semi-detached house in Crawley Down on Sunday morning, with paramedics pronouncing both dead at the scene.
One neighbour alleged they had heard someone yell “I’m going to kill you” during an argument prior to their deaths.
Reports suggested that Seagrave was killed after coming to the aid of Appleton, who was a teacher at the nearby Copthorne Church of England Junior School.
A man, 37, has since been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Officers confirmed he was known to Appleton and is currently in a "very unstable condition" after being found inured inside the property.
Detective Chief Inspector of Sussex police 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."
Neighbours turned off their Christmas lights in tribute as locals laid flowers and cards on the side of the road on Hazel Way, where uniformed officers remain stationed. After laying a bunch of flowers, one passer-by said: "It is a horrible thing to have happened. Who would have believed this could happen in a sleepy place like this?"
Retired milkman Tony Jones, 74, described 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, added: "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."
Officers continued to make enquiries throughout Christmas Eve, talking to neighbours and gathering statements. The attack is currently being considered as an isolated incident, with no ongoing risk to members of the public.
Chief Superintendent Jerry Westerman, West Sussex divisional commander, added: "This is an isolated yet shocking incident that has shaken many in the community. We are thankful to them for supporting officers as they go about their inquiries."