A woman who was found stabbed to death following a suspected gas explosion at a home in Stoke Newington, North London, has been named locally as Annabel Rook.
Emergency services were called to Dumont Road at 4:57am on Tuesday, 17 June, after reports of an explosion with a person trapped inside a two-storey terraced house. The blast partially destroyed the basement and ground floor of the property.
Inside, paramedics discovered 46-year-old Annabel Rook with multiple stab wounds. Despite best efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. A murder investigation has been launched by the Metropolitan Police.
Man Arrested, Children Taken to Hospital
A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder at the address. He was taken to hospital with slash wounds, but his injuries are not life-threatening or life-changing.
Two children, aged seven and nine, believed to be related to the victim, were taken to hospital as a precautionary measure. They are not thought to have been inside the home during the explosion.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed that six fire engines and around 40 firefighters responded to the scene. A large cordon remains in place and roads including Stoke Newington Church Street and Kersley Road remain closed.
Community in Shock
Neighbours and members of the local school community have expressed deep sorrow following the tragedy. A local resident, whose children attend the same school as the victim’s, said:
“We know them well. Our kids are in the same class. They were just a lovely family. It’s just unexpected.”
“The kids were out at a sleepover. We found out on the school run. Everyone is devastated.”
Investigation Continues
The Met’s Homicide Command is leading the investigation. Forensic teams remain on scene and structural engineers are assessing the safety of the building.
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
