Murder investigation after 'unresponsive' woman dies in east London

Police were called to Ratcliffe Lane in Tower Hamlets on Thursday.

Police were called by the London Ambulance Service on Thursday to Ratcliffe Lane, E14
Author: Aileen O'SullivanPublished 24th May 2024
Last updated 24th May 2024

A woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder after police were called to an incident in Tower Hamlets.

Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at about 14:30hrs on Thursday, 23 May to Ratcliffe Lane, E14 following a report of an unresponsive female at the scene.

Despite the efforts of the emergency services, the woman, aged 21, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Her next of kin have been informed.

A second woman, aged in her mid-40s, was taken to hospital, where she remains. Her condition has been assessed as non life-threatening. She has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Both woman are known to each other.

Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command have been informed and are leading the investigation. The family are being supported by specialist trained officers.

"This appears to be a tragic set of circumstances and we are working closely, with the Specialist Crime Command, to understand exactly what occurred"

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, the local policing lead for Tower Hamlets and Hackney, said: "My thoughts are with the family of this lady at this exceptionally difficult time.

"This appears to be a tragic set of circumstances and we are working closely, with the Specialist Crime Command, to understand exactly what occurred and to piece together the events that have led to this devastating outcome.

"Over the course of the next few days, my officers will be in the location of Ratcliffe Lane to provide any reassurance that the community needs but also as an opportunity for anyone with any information about this incident to speak with us.

"Any information provided and will be handled with sensitivity and respect’.

Anyone with information about this incident should contact police by calling 101 and stating CAD reference 4146/23MAY24 or, if wishing to remain anonymous, should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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