The Metropolitan Police have launched a major double murder investigation following the tragic deaths of two women in South London, with a 36-year-old man now in custody for both alleged killings.
In a shocking development to the case, the man was re-arrested on suspicion of murder after initially being released under investigation. He had first been taken into custody following the discovery of a 53-year-old woman's body at a residential address on Bensham Lane, Thornton Heath, on Tuesday afternoon.
The investigation took a dramatic turn when officers were called to a second address just half a mile away on Shrubbery Avenue, Croydon, shortly after 5 PM on Wednesday. There, they discovered the body of a second woman, aged 40.
Forensics teams have sealed off both crime scenes as detectives work to establish the full circumstances surrounding both deaths. The two women are believed to have been known to the suspect.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated: "A 36-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been further arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of a second woman. He remains in custody at a South London police station."
Local residents have expressed their shock and horror at the tragic events unfolding in their community. One neighbour described the area as "usually quiet" and expressed their devastation at the news.
The investigation continues as forensic experts conduct thorough examinations of both properties. The Met's Homicide and Major Crime Command are leading the inquiry.
