Woman Found Stabbed to Death After Gas Explosion in Stoke Newington
A shocking murder investigation is underway in Stoke Newington after a woman was found fatally stabbed inside a property damaged by a suspected gas explosion.
Victim Named as Annabel Rook
Emergency crews rushed to a terraced house on Dumont Road at 4:57am on Tuesday, 17 June, following reports of an explosion trapping someone inside. The blast tore through the basement and ground floor.
Paramedics found 46-year-old Annabel Rook inside with multiple stab wounds. Despite desperate attempts to save her, Annabel was pronounced dead at the scene.
Man Arrested, Children Taken to Hospital
A 44-year-old man was arrested at the property on suspicion of murder. He suffered slash wounds and was taken to hospital, but his injuries are reported as not life-threatening.
Two children, aged seven and nine, believed to be related to Annabel, were also taken to hospital as a precaution. They are not thought to have been inside the home when the explosion occurred.
Massive Emergency Response and Road Closures
The London Fire Brigade deployed six fire engines and about 40 firefighters to tackle the scene. A large cordon remains in place with road closures including Stoke Newington Church Street and Kersley Road disrupting the area.
Community in Shock
Local residents and the school community are devastated. One neighbour said:
“We know them well. Our kids are in the same class. They were just a lovely family. It’s just so unexpected.”
“The kids were out at a sleepover. We found out on the school run. Everyone is devastated.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Metropolitan Police’s Homicide Command is leading the probe. Forensic experts remain at the scene while structural engineers assess the building’s safety.
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
