Police Hunt Man in Romford Woman’s Murder Case
Detectives are on the trail of a mystery man after the body of Maria Rawlings, 45, was found dumped in shrubbery in Romford.
Maria was discovered dead in Little Heath on Tuesday, 4 May, at around 2pm. A post-mortem revealed she died from neck compression and possible blunt force trauma to the head.
Man Caught on Bus Footage
Officers want to identify a man seen travelling on the 364 bus towards Dagenham just after midnight on 4 May. Detective Chief Inspector David Hillier is leading the probe and urges anyone who recognises the man to come forward.
“I would urge anyone who recognises this man to contact police immediately. We are carrying out a fast-paced investigation and I believe this man may have significant information to help us with our enquiries,” said DCI Hillier.
He warned the public not to approach the man but to call 999 if they spot him.
Maria’s Last Movements
- Maria was seen at King George’s Hospital in Goodmayes, Ilford, on the evening of 3 May.
- She left the hospital on foot, heading towards Barley Lane near the A12.
- Police believe she was approached by someone while walking along this route.
- Her body was found the next day in Little Heath, Romford.
How You Can Help
Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact police via:
- Incident room on 020 8345 3865
- 101 non-emergency number
- @MetCC on Twitter – quote CAD3551/4May
- Upload footage online: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS21S25-PO1
