A coroner has ruled that a 41-year-old woman took her own life after brutally attacking her 71-year-old mother with a hammer in their London home, in what has been described as a devastating murder-suicide.
The tragic incident unfolded on June 10, 2023, at the mother and daughter's flat in Islington, north London. Emergency services discovered both women with catastrophic injuries after neighbours reported hearing distressing screams and loud bangs.
A Desperate Final Act
Coroner Mary Hassell concluded that Elizabeth Ristea died by suicide after causing fatal injuries to her mother, Maria Ristea. The court heard how Elizabeth had jumped from a third-floor window following the violent attack.
Paramedics pronounced Maria dead at the scene, having suffered multiple skull fractures and brain injuries consistent with being struck by a hammer. Elizabeth was rushed to the Royal London Hospital but died five days later from her injuries.
Disturbing Scene Uncovered
Police officers who forced entry into the property discovered a blood-stained hammer near Maria's body. Detective Inspector Lucy Dainton told the inquest that the evidence pointed to Elizabeth attacking her mother before taking her own life.
"The positioning of the hammer, the nature of Maria's injuries, and Elizabeth's subsequent actions all indicate this was a deliberate attack followed by suicide," DI Dainton stated.
Family Tragedy Unfolds
The inquest heard that both women had been experiencing significant mental health challenges in the period leading up to the tragedy. Family members described increasing concerns about their wellbeing, though nothing suggested the horrific outcome that awaited.
Neighbours reported hearing raised voices and concerning noises coming from the flat throughout the day, culminating in the sound of breaking glass as Elizabeth plunged from the window.
Coroner's Verdict
Recording her conclusions, Coroner Hassell stated: "I find that Elizabeth Ristea killed her mother and then killed herself. This represents a profound family tragedy that has left surviving relatives devastated."
The coroner extended her deepest sympathies to the remaining family members, acknowledging the unimaginable pain caused by losing two generations in such violent circumstances.
Mental health advocates have since emphasized the importance of early intervention and support for families dealing with complex psychological issues, hoping to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
