Residents of Milton Keynes were left reeling on Christmas Day following a shocking stabbing incident at a block of apartments on Santa Cruz Avenue, Bletchley. The attack resulted in the deaths of two women, aged 38 and 24, and left two others seriously injured, stirring fear and disbelief within the community.
Thames Valley Police reported receiving emergency calls just after 6:30 PM on Christmas Day. Responding officers arrived at the scene to find the two women had succumbed to their injuries. A 49-year-old man from Milton Keynes was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and remains in police custody as investigations proceed.
Both injured individuals—a teenage boy and a man of late twenties—were transported to the hospital, where they are being treated for serious but non-life-threatening injuries and are reported to be stable. Tragically, a dog, also involved in the incident, was taken to the veterinarian but did not survive.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Brangwin, who is leading the investigation, expressed his condolences, stating, "Firstly I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the families of the women who have tragically died in this shocking incident." He emphasized the rapid police response and reassured the public, saying, "We have launched a double murder investigation, which may be concerning to the wider public; but we have made an arrest and are not looking for anyone else. The parties are known to each other." Brangwin encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
The local community has been deeply affected by the incident, with many residents expressing their shock. Shazna Muzammil, a Conservative councillor on Milton Keynes City Council, remarked on social media: "This is horrible on Christmas Day and we are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events in Bletchley. Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and neighbors of the two women who have tragically lost their lives." Residents described the area as typically peaceful—a family-oriented neighborhood where such violence is unforeseen.
Neighbors recounted the chaos following the incident. "I was told the man who did the stabbing was on the loose and running around the estate," said one resident, who preferred to remain anonymous. Another added, "You don’t expect to see this kind of thing here," emphasizing the area's normal tranquility.
Forensic teams were soon seen at the crime scene, conducting investigations within the apartment complex. Evidence markers, caution tape, and police presence transformed the once-calm estate, marking the gravity of the situation. A cordon was established around the building as detectives continued their inquiries, creating unease among local residents who ordinarily feel secure.
Witnesses reported seeing the emotional response of the community as flowers and tributes began to appear near the police cordon, highlighting the collective grief felt by those who tied bouquets and placed tributes, such as teddy bears wearing Father Christmas outfits, to honor the deceased.
The local St Joseph’s church offered its hall for those seeking solace, inviting residents to come together for quiet contemplation and support. Such gestures signify the community's resilience and desire to heal after experiencing such tragedy.
Detective Chief Inspector Brangwin concluded encouragingly, reiteration firmness from authorities, saying, "Members of the public will see a large police presence in the area for reassurance during our investigation. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to approach our officers, and they will do their best to help." Police have called on anyone with additional information to contact them, providing reference number 43240622935, and have engaged with Crimestoppers for anonymous tips.
The investigation is still active, and the incident's chilling impact on the community continues to resonate as residents process their disbelief and mourning. With heightened security measures and community support efforts underway, Milton Keynes will undoubtedly come together to recover from this horrific event, ensuring no one feels alone during this painful time.
