Boys held over death of woman, 84, after home was pelted with stones

FOUR boys have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter over the death of an elderly woman who collapsed after her home in West Yorkshire was pelted with stones.

Joyce Moulson, 84, collapsed 10 minutes after police were called to reports youths had smashed a glass door panel at her terraced cottage in Fair Road, Wibsey, Bradford, on Tuesday evening.

The grandmother was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead soon after she arrived.

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Two 13-year-olds and two 12-year-olds, all from Bradford, were being questioned last night.

Neighbours earlier paid tribute to Mrs Moulson as they spoke of their shock at her death.

Tom Butler, 81, who had lived opposite her for more than 40 years, said: “She was a lovely woman. How could this have happened? I just hope they catch those responsible.”

Nicola Taylor, 29, who also lives opposite, said: “It’s devastating. She must have been really, really scared.

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“There’s always a lot of kids hanging round on the corner. It’s quite scary.”

Another neighbour, who did not want to be named, added: “She was an absolutely lovely old lady, a really happy, helpful person – a great neighbour.

“I was just sat in my living room when I heard kids outside but I didn’t think anything of it as I’m just so used to them congregating near our houses.

“It’s just a tragedy.”

A post-mortem examination was taking place last night to determine the cause of her death.

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Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Simon Atkinson said: “We received reports three male youths had thrown stones at the address, which smashed a glass door panel.

“The elderly occupant collapsed around 10 minutes later and was transported to Bradford Royal Infirmary, during which period she sadly died.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which happened at around 6pm on Tuesday.Anyone with information is asked to call 101.