A 93-year-old woman, identified as Judith Zussman, was discovered deceased in a residence, prompting authorities to initiate a murder inquiry. Judith, affectionately known as Judy, was found deceased at a property on Altrincham Road in Gatley, Greater Manchester, on Wednesday morning.
Law enforcement officials have apprehended a 39-year-old female on suspicion of murder. The family of the revered grandmother released a poignant statement lauding Judy for her benevolence, highlighting her role as a cherished wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. The family emphasized Judy’s deep love for her family and requested privacy during this difficult period.
The suspect has been taken into custody under the Mental Health Act, as disclosed by Greater Manchester Police. Authorities swiftly responded to the scene at 9:38 a.m., establishing a perimeter as they conducted investigations and combed through the property.
The case has been escalated to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to previous interactions, according to Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Adam Hitchen. Hitchen affirmed that the primary focus of the investigation is to unravel the circumstances surrounding the tragic event and serve justice for the victim. He assured the community that the incident is isolated, with no further threat perceived.
Additional police presence will be deployed in the vicinity to offer reassurance to local residents, as stated by Hitchen. Member of Parliament for Cheadle, Tom Morrison, expressed solidarity with the community, denouncing the loss experienced by Judy and her family.
Judy, the widow of renowned mineralogist Professor Jack Zussman, and former head of department at the University of Manchester, had celebrated Jack’s centennial birthday last summer. The couple had been active members of the Menorah Synagogue in Sharston, Wythenshawe, since 1975, having met in 1959 when Judy worked as a nursing sister at Manchester Royal Infirmary. They tied the knot in 1960 and raised three children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact 101, quoting log number 726 of April 16.