Andrea Waddell

Brighton police have arrested a 42-year-old following the death of Andrea Waddell, a trans woman who was found strangled on Thursday night (15), following a fire in her flat.

The man, is currently in police custody and being interviewed by detectives.

In a statement released by her family last night they revealed Andrea Joanne Waddell was born Alexander John and began hormone treatment while studying philosophy at Durham University. She ended the three year course as Andrea Joanna and later underwent gender reassignement surgery while studying for a master's degree in social and political thought at Sussex University.

Her family said:
“We want the world to know how much we love her and how proud of her we are and always will be.

“She endured so much pain and suffering in her life - she still had constant pain - and was brave, resilient and loving.

“Our lives will never be the same again but we will never stop loving her, being proud of her and being grateful for having her with us for 29 years.”

Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or who has any information about Andrea is urged to contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070999, quoting serial 1925 of October 16, Operation Merewood.