Dog walker dies after attack as man arrested on suspicion of murder

A woman has died after she found unconscious and with a serious head injury after taking her dog for a walk, Suffolk police said.

Anita Rose, 57, was found on a track near Rectory Lane, Brantham, shortly after 8am on Wednesday, after taking her Springer Spaniel Bruce for a walk, the force said. She died in hospital on Sunday morning.

A 45-year-old man who was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of attempted murder has since been re-arrested on suspicion of murder.

Anita Rose’s family said in a statement: “Our mum was well known and loved in the community.

“She was brutally taken from us devastatingly too early, and we have been robbed of so much time with her.

“She wasn’t just a mum of six, she was also a grandma 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 for everyone to cherish their time with their family and loved ones.”

A 45-year-old man was arrested yesterday afternoon on suspicion of attempted murder and was taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of murder.

A 37-year-old woman from the Ipswich area was also arrested yesterday on suspicion of handling stolen goods in connection with the incident and was taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.

The pair have since been released on police bail with conditions to return on 25 October 2024.  

Officers have also been able to locate and recover the missing mobile phone – an Apple iPhone. The pink zip-up jacket, which police believe Anita was wearing immediately prior to the incident, is still missing.

Detective Superintendent Mike Brown said: “This is a very serious incident following which Anita has now sadly died of her injuries.

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

“The investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the offence continues, as do enquiries to establish the cause of death. Though I can now confirm that the scene has been lifted on Rectory Lane.

“Local residents should expect to see a continued police presence over the next few days while enquiries take place, while additional officers will also be in the area to provide reassurance to the local community.

“Whilst searches and house to house enquiries take place, we are keen to speak to anyone who saw anything on Wednesday that they think might be useful to the police investigation and anyone living in the area that has CCTV or doorbell cameras.”

Anyone with any information or has any knowledge of the incident that could help the police with their enquiries should contact Suffolk police, quoting 37/41580/24. You can report information on the MIPP Portal or call police on 101. You can also contact  the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org.