Hai Van Nguyen, who self-presented himself to police, is accused of killing his partner Hien Thi Vu at their home
A man has been charged with the murder of his wife at their home in south-east London, the Metropolitan Police confirmed on Monday.
Hai Van Nguyen, 41, is accused of killing his partner, Hien Thi Vu, 45, at a residential property in New Cross Gate, Lewisham, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Emergency services were called to Hatfield Close — a quiet residential street comprising a mix of apartment blocks and semi-detached homes — at 6:41am following reports of a woman with serious injuries.
Paramedics from the London Ambulance Service responded swiftly, but despite their efforts to save her, Ms Vu was pronounced dead at the scene.
Just minutes later, at approximately 6:52am, Mr Nguyen presented himself at Lewisham Police Station in connection with the incident. He was arrested on suspicion of murder and later charged.
The Metropolitan Police announced the formal charge on Monday, stating that Nguyen had been remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Bromley Magistrates’ Court that same afternoon.
In a statement, the force said:
“Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 06:41hrs on Sunday 14 April to reports of a seriously injured woman at a residential address in Hatfield Close, SE14.”
“Despite the efforts of emergency services, the 45-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.”
A post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death is expected to take place in due course.
The investigation is being led by detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, who have appealed for any members of the public with information to come forward.
Neighbours in Hatfield Close expressed their shock and sadness at the tragic events. One local resident, who did not wish to be named, said:
“We heard sirens early in the morning and saw several police cars and ambulances outside. It’s a quiet area, very family-oriented. Something like this is truly heartbreaking.”
Another added: “They seemed like a normal couple. We never imagined something like this would happen right on our doorstep.”
While police have not released further details about the circumstances of Ms Vu’s death, they confirmed that they are not seeking any other individuals in connection with the investigation.
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The tragedy has cast a sombre mood over the community, as residents come to terms with the shocking incident.
Domestic violence charities have reiterated the importance of support networks for individuals experiencing abuse. A spokesperson for Refuge said:
“This devastating case serves as another painful reminder of the need to address domestic abuse in all its forms. We urge anyone in fear for their safety or wellbeing to reach out for help — there are organisations available 24/7 offering confidential support.”
Mr Nguyen is currently in custody and will remain so until his next court appearance, pending further legal proceedings.
The Met said they would continue working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service as the case moves through the judicial system.
In the meantime, the local Safer Neighbourhoods Team has increased patrols in the area and urged residents to speak to officers if they have any concerns or information that might assist the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Met Police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1272/14Apr or to remain anonymous by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
