Police launched a murder investigation after an 86-year-old woman was killed and her husband was left with life-threatening injuries.
The woman, named locally as Freda Walker, died at her home in Langwith Junction in Derbyshire.
The 88-year-old man, thought to be local politician Ken Walker, was taken to hospital for treatment.
Paramedics called police to the house in Station Road at 09:30 am on Saturday 15 January.
Mr Walker was previously chairman of Bolsover District Council and was last month made an Honorary Alderman for his services.
The force was called by EMAS paramedics at 9.30am on Saturday 15 January to reports that a man and a woman had been found with serious injuries at a house in Station Road, Langwith Junction.
The 86-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene while the man, also aged 88, is being treated at hospital for life-threatening injuries – he remains in a critical condition.
Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Hayley Barnett, said: “This is a horrific incident for the community of Langwith Junction and our thoughts remain with the family and friends of those affected.
“While the investigation is in its early stages, I can confirm this is not being treated as a domestic incident.
“There was also a serious level of violence used in the incident and we are doing all we can to understand the circumstances and find those responsible.
“A team of detectives are working round the clock and I would urge anyone, particularly any drivers with dashcam or homeowners with CCTV that covers the area, to come forwards as a matter of urgency.”
