Murder arrest after woman stabbed to death by stranger in Brixton

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails

Sign up to our free breaking news emails

Please enter a valid email address

Please enter a valid email address

SIGN UP

I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman was stabbed to death by a stranger in broad daylight in south London.

Police launched an “urgent” investigation after the bank holiday Monday horror attack shortly after 4pm on Stockwell Park Walk, Brixton, near the music venue the O2 Academy.

A Met Police spokesperson said the victim, 31, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family has been informed.

On Tuesday, police confirmed a 33-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of her murder and is in police custody.

Have you been affected by this story? If so, email thomas.kingsley@independent.co.uk

The force said investigations so far and a review of CCTV in the area suggest the woman was walking along Stockwell Park Road when she was attacked by a man from behind.

There is nothing to suggest the attacker and the victim knew each other.

Detective Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh, local policing commander for Lambeth, said: "This is a shocking attack and my thoughts are with the woman’s family and friends as they come to terms with this awful news. We will do everything we can to support them at this incredibly difficult time.

"I recognise the considerable concern this incident has caused and I’d like to reassure you that a dedicated team of detectives are carrying out a number of enquiries and have made an arrest.

"Despite this, we have additional officers in the area to respond to any concerns from members of the community and I would ask people to report any suspicious activity to us."

Formal identification is yet to take place and a post-mortem examination will be arranged.

Police have taped off the area where the stabbing happened, while a blue tent has been erected.

Natasha Jordan, who works at Live True London on Brixton Road, told the Evening Standard: “There were loads of police cars and ambulances that came.

“Loads of police were walking up and down the road because there’s a police station right near here.”

Any witnesses are asked to call 101 quoting CAD 4728/01May. To remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.