By TOM LAWRENCE, NEWS REPORTER

Published: 14:25 GMT, 30 December 2025 | Updated: 14:25 GMT, 30 December 2025

A woman has appeared in court charged with murdering a pensioner on Christmas Day.

Stefania Glowka, 63, appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court today accused of killing Tamara Glowka, who was in her 80s.

Police were called to a report of a serious assault at a flat on Keepers Road in Devizes, Wiltshire, at around 8am on Christmas Day.

Despite the best efforts of the ambulance service, the victim was declared dead at the scene. 

Polish national Glowka, of Devizes, was remanded into custody by magistrates and ordered to appear before Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday, police said.

Tamara Glowka, who was known to the defendant, was identified from publicly available court papers. 

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: 'Formal identification of the victim is yet to take place.

'A preliminary post-mortem examination has been carried out but further information is needed to establish the cause of death.

The retired lady, who was in her eighties, was assaulted at a flat (pictured) in the town of Devizes, Wiltshire, this morning

Police were called to the scene at around 8am on Thursday to reports of a serious assault

Stefania Glowka, 63, appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court today accused of murder

'A cordon set up at the address has now been lifted.'

Speaking on Thursday, DI Alan Smith, from the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: 'This is a tragic incident in which an elderly woman has lost her life on Christmas Day. 

'Local residents will see an increased policing presence over the coming days. 

'If you have any concerns, or you have any information, please don't hesitate to speak to one of our officers.'