Residents of Thorpe St Andrew, near Norwich, are reeling after a tragic attack left a local mother-of-four dead outside her home on Saturday night.
Tania Williams, remembered by neighbors for her vibrant personality and bright blue hair, was fatally stabbed on her doorstep, sparking horror across the quiet cul-de-sac where she had lived for a decade.
Neighbors Attempted a Heroic Rescue
Witnesses described the frantic scenes as neighbors rushed to try to save Tania’s life.
One resident recalled hearing screams and immediately calling 999.
“I was on the phone with the emergency services, following their instructions for CPR,” the neighbor said.
“But my neighbor told me she was far gone. It was shocking — you never expect something like this to happen right outside your door.”
Despite their desperate efforts, Tania, believed to be in her 40s, could not be revived.
Floral tributes have since been left outside her home, reflecting the deep sense of loss in the community.
Suspect in Custody
Early on Sunday morning, police arrested a man in his 60s, reportedly known to Tania, on suspicion of her murder.
He remains in custody at Wymondham Police Investigation Centre while officers continue questioning him.
Norfolk Police have been granted an extra 30 hours to question the suspect as part of their ongoing investigation.
Remembering Tania Williams
Neighbors have described Tania as a “bubbly” and friendly individual.
One woman, who asked to be identified as Mrs. Drake, said, “She was so lovely. I can’t believe this has happened. It doesn’t feel real.”
Tania was actively involved in her community.
Last year, she campaigned for more dog waste bins in her neighborhood, noting the unpleasant impact of overflowing or absent bins on local streets.
“It’s grim seeing piles of dog mess along the road. We need more bins to keep our area clean,” she had told the Eastern Daily Press in February 2025.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Norfolk Police confirmed that the investigation is still in the early stages.
Officers were called to Catherine Gardens shortly before 11:45 pm on Saturday after reports of a woman being injured.
Tania was declared dead at the scene, and a murder investigation was immediately launched.
Detective Superintendent Stacey Murray, leading the investigation, said, “We are working to establish the full sequence of events. We do believe both parties were known to each other.”
Detective Inspector Sam Pontin, from the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team, emphasized the impact on Tania’s family: “At the heart of this investigation is a family who have suffered the devastating loss of a loved one.
Our Family Liaison Officers are supporting them through this extremely difficult time. We ask the public not to speculate as the investigation continues.”
How the Public Can Help
Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Tips can be submitted online, by calling 101 with the incident reference 559 of January 17, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Officers stressed that certain details cannot be shared publicly to preserve the integrity of the investigation and ensure justice for Tania and her family.
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