Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
Detectives investigating a murder in Hackney are now able to name the victim, as their enquiries continue into the circumstances of her death.
Annabel Rook, aged 46, died early this morning, Tuesday, 17 June, having been found with stab wounds.
A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Officers are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
Police were called at 04:57hrs to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside an address in Dumont Road, Hackney.
Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Annabel sadly died at the scene.
Her family continue to be supported by specialist officers.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who leads policing in the local area, said: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are with the victim’s family at this very difficult time.
“Our officers arrested a man on suspicion of murder at the scene and will be conducting interviews as soon as possible, to establish the full circumstances that led to Annabel’s death. While enquiries continue, at this early stage we do believe this to be a domestic-related incident.
“We understand what happened will cause concern within the Hackney community and residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area, along with a crime scene, as we carry out the investigation. We are working closely alongside our partners at Hackney Council to help support those residents locally who have been impacted by this.”
The man arrested was taken to hospital with slash wounds where he currently remains. His condition is not life-changing or life-threatening.
Two children, aged nine and seven, were also been taken to hospital as a precaution but are not believed to have been inside the property at the time of the gas explosion.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.