A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a woman in her 80s in plumstead/">Plumstead, southeast London.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Service were called at approximately 08:50am on Wednesday, April 1, to reports of a man armed with a knife in Red Lion Place, near Shooter’s Hill.
Elderly woman dies after attack
Emergency services, including crews from the London Ambulance Service, attended the scene where the elderly victim was found with serious injuries outside a residential address.
She was rushed to the hospital, but despite the efforts of paramedics, she later died.
Police confirmed her family has been informed and is being supported by specially trained officers.
Suspect arrested shortly after
A man in his 60s presented himself at a nearby police station shortly after 09:10am, where he was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was then taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
At this stage, detectives believe the suspect and the victim were known to each other. Officers are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.
Second man threatened in shocking incident
Police also revealed that another man was threatened with a knife during the incident but did not sustain any injuries.
Residents describe terrifying moments before arrest
One resident claimed a man ran from a nearby address before approaching another individual in the street, allegedly attempting to stab him while making disturbing comments. The victim was reportedly unharmed after the knife failed to penetrate his clothing.
The same account suggested police responded within minutes, with officers quickly locating and detaining the suspect.
Unverified social media reports also claim that officers later attended a nearby property where a woman was found fatally injured. These details have not been formally confirmed by police but are circulating widely among the local community.
Another widely shared message referenced the area around the Red Lion pub on Shooter’s Hill being cordoned off following the incident, with residents expressing shock at the violence unfolding in what is usually a quiet residential area.
Police appeal for calm and reassurance
Detective Inspector Dean Grice, who is leading the investigation, described the incident as “deeply tragic” and confirmed a full inquiry is now underway to establish the exact circumstances.
Detective Superintendent James Derham added that the incident is believed to be isolated, reassuring residents there is no wider threat to the public.
A visible police presence will remain in the area as enquiries continue, with officers urging anyone with concerns to speak to them directly or contact police via 101.
What we know so far:
- Emergency call received at 08:50am on April 1
- Woman in her 80s fatally stabbed outside her home
- Second man threatened but unharmed
- Male suspect, aged in his 60s, arrested after attending police station
- Incident believed to be isolated with no wider risk
Residents in Plumstead and the wider Shooter’s Hill area can expect increased patrols throughout the day as investigators continue their work.
