A 19-year-old woman has died following reports of gunshots at an address in Barnet, north London. The Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Dale Grove, North Finchley, at around 12:15 am on Monday. Emergency services attempted to save the young woman, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. Specialist officers are supporting her next of kin. Formal identification and a post-mortem examination have yet to take place.
Community in shock
Residents in the area expressed disbelief and sorrow. Resham Singh, who has lived in Dale Grove for 47 years, said: 'There has never been any problem at the house before. We cannot believe a 19-year-old has been killed. This is a quiet suburban street. We did not hear any shots or anything. This is a mystery to us. We are heartbroken and thinking of the victim's family.'
Faz Saj, another resident, added: 'I am absolutely gobsmacked about what has happened. It is a quiet family street. It is a big shock.'
One neighbour, who asked not to be named, reported hearing as many as three gunshots. They told Metro: 'I heard a loud bang and then two more. I thought it was a motorbike backfiring. I did not think anything of it. Later I looked out, and there were police everywhere and two young girls sitting on the wall of the house crying. It was very harrowing.'
Murder investigation launched
The Metropolitan Police has launched a murder investigation and is appealing for information. No arrests have been made, but officers are investigating a theory that a suspect was known to the victim. Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, leading the investigation, said: 'Our thoughts are with the young woman's family at this incredibly difficult time as they begin to come to terms with their loss. We understand the concern this incident will cause within the community. While our enquiries are ongoing, residents can expect to see an increased police presence over the coming days, and I encourage anyone with concerns to speak with officers.'
He urged anyone with information, including doorbell or dashcam footage from around midnight in or near Dale Grove, to contact police via 101, quoting reference 34/8JUN. Anonymous tips can be provided through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
