Thames Valley Police responded to a property on Appleford Drive in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, at approximately 2:20 p.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2026, following reports of an unexplained death.
Officers discovered the body of Jill Gant, aged 88, inside the residence. A subsequent murder investigation was initiated, culminating in the arrest of a 36-year-old man from Abingdon on suspicion of murder. He is currently being held in police custody.
The force confirmed that Ms. Gant's family has been notified and is receiving support from specially trained officers. The family has requested privacy during this period.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Brangwin stated that the police's thoughts are with Ms. Gant's family and acknowledged that the incident may cause concern within the community. He assured residents that the investigation is a priority and that an increased police presence in the area is to be expected.
"At this early stage we do not currently believe there is any threat to the wider public as we have made an arrest and we are not looking for anyone else, at this time," Brangwin said.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101 or by submitting an online report through the force's website, referencing case number 43260472268.
