High Wycombe residents react to attempted murder investigation

At around 1.20am on February 18, officers were called to Melbourne Road within the town following a report that a woman in her 40s had been assaulted.

She has been taken to a nearby hospital where she remains in critical condition.

The forensics were at the scene in High Wycombe (Image: NQ)

A 38-year-old man from High Wycombe has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody.

At the time of writing, parts of Melbourne Road leading into a nearby park have been cordoned off.

Forensics were also spotted at the scene.

Speaking to members of the public, one person, who wanted to remain nameless, said: “It’s very close to home.

The police have closed off the road (Image: NQ)

“I was woken up by the flashing beacons in the early hours of the morning and we saw a lot of police activity, but we didn’t know what was going on.

“Everything is closed off and you can’t get through the park at all.

“The police were going door to door but they didn’t say much, so hearing it’s attempted murder is very worrying.

“I’ve got grandchildren that visit here quite often but then you have to think about whether it’s safe for them to walk down here.

“We keep ourselves to ourselves but it’s very worrying and I want my grandkids to be safe, as we take them down to that park and I always keep my doors locked.”

Another person, who also wanted to remain anonymous, added: “I live and work in the town so to hear this has happened is very scary.

“I was shocked to hear that this has happened in my area.

“It’s very concerning.”

The incident happened along Melbourne Road in High Wycombe (Image: NQ)

Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Tracey Smyth said: “This was a serious incident that we are investigating thoroughly, with a suspect currently in police custody.

“We are in the very early stages of our investigation and are still trying to establish the full circumstances. It’s really important that if you have any information at all that could help our investigation you get in touch as soon as possible.

“While our investigation continues, you will see an increased number of officers in the area. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to approach them and ask any questions you may have.

“To make a report, please call us on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 43240077520, or make a report online.

“Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”