A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a woman in a bustling area of north-west London, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed.
Emergency response to afternoon incident
Officers were called to reports of a stabbing in Pound Lane, Willesden, at approximately 4pm on Saturday afternoon. Emergency services attended the scene promptly, where they discovered a 50-year-old woman suffering from stab wounds.
Despite the immediate and best efforts of paramedics at the location, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The Metropolitan Police have stated that the man arrested is believed to have been known to the victim.
Police investigation and public reassurance
Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Woodsford, leading the investigation from the Met's Specialist Crime Command, expressed her condolences, stating: "Firstly, my thoughts are with the victim and her family at this incredibly difficult time."
She added: "This incident happened in a busy part of Willesden, and I'd also like to thank the members of the public who provided first aid and called the emergency services."
The suspect was arrested within several hours of the incident and remains in custody at a north London police station. Detective Chief Inspector Woodsford emphasised: "Our priority is to establish the circumstances surrounding what happened. However, based on our inquiries so far, there is nothing to suggest any wider risk to the public."
Increased police presence in Brent
Detective Superintendent Tony Bellis, responsible for local policing in the London Borough of Brent, addressed community concerns, saying: "An incident of this nature is tragic and deeply concerning, and our thoughts remain with the victim's family, friends and all those affected."
He confirmed: "Based on what we know at this stage, this is believed to be an isolated incident, and there is no information to suggest any wider risk to the public."
Local officers will be on patrol in the area, with an increased police presence expected in the coming days. Detective Superintendent Bellis explained: "Our officers are there to provide reassurance, engage with the community, and respond to any questions or concerns."
Appeal for information from witnesses
Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Detective Superintendent Bellis stated: "I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that may assist the investigation to speak to officers in the area or contact us directly. Even small pieces of information can be vital."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting the reference CAD 4731/31Jan. The Metropolitan Police have assured the public that their investigation is ongoing, with local patrols continuing to monitor the situation in Willesden.
