Detectives have launched a murder investigation after a 42-year-old woman died with stab wounds at a property in south London.
Officers named the victim of the stabbing in Carshalton's Nutfield Close as Gemma Devonish, and said a 38-year-old man thought to be known to Gemma has been arrested on suspicion of her murder.
The suspect was detained in the early hours of Friday. Officers said they were not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the murder probe.
Emergency services were called to the property on the residential street around 10.30am on Thursday and found Ms Devonish with stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Formal identification and an autopsy giving cause of death are due to take place later.
Detectives said they were appealing for anyone who was in Nutfield Close and saw anything suspicious between Wednesday and Thursday morning to make contact over the “terrible” incident.
Met Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila said: “Our thoughts today are with Gemma’s family and friends who are trying to come to terms with this truly tragic event. We are offering them all the support that we can.
“We know that the wider community will also be impacted and I would urge anyone with concerns to please speak with local officers.
“While we have made an arrest, detectives continue to carry out a number of enquiries as we build a picture of the events that led to this horrific murder.
“I would ask anyone who was in the area of Nutfield Close who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, particularly on Wednesday 18 or morning of Thursday 19 December, to make contact.”
Senior officers in the area said residents would see an increased police presence as they piece together the circumstances leading to Ms Devonish’s death.
Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, of the Met unit responsible for policing in Sutton said: “I share the shock and concern that this terrible incident will have on the local community in Sutton.
“A team of specialist detectives is already making significant progress in this investigation and have swiftly arrested a man who is now in police custody.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 7175 2206 or via 101 quoting CAD 3012/19Dec.
To remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
