A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following a fatal stabbing in south-west London, police have confirmed.
The Metropolitan Police said officers were called to Ellerman Avenue, Twickenham, within the borough of Richmond upon Thames, late on Saturday night following reports of a stabbing. Emergency services were dispatched at 11.39pm and arrived promptly at the scene.
Upon arrival, officers found a 31-year-old man suffering from stab wounds. Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene, Scotland Yard said in a statement released on Sunday morning.
A 47-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder. He was taken into custody at a nearby police station, where he remains as enquiries continue.
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command, who is leading the investigation, said:
“A team of detectives are working to piece together the circumstances that resulted in this tragic incident.
“Our thoughts are very much with the victim’s family at this difficult time.”
She continued: “Officers will remain in the area throughout the day as they carry out further enquiries and gather evidence.
“We are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information that could assist our investigation.”
The victim’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
Police have established a crime scene at Ellerman Avenue, and forensic teams were seen working in the area throughout Sunday. Several properties have been cordoned off while officers conduct door-to-door enquiries to gather more information.
Uniformed officers also maintained a visible presence in the neighbourhood to reassure residents, many of whom expressed shock and sadness at the incident.
One local resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s absolutely heartbreaking. You don’t expect something like this to happen on your doorstep. This is usually such a quiet and safe area.”
Another neighbour said: “We just saw all the flashing lights and police tape late last night. It’s very unsettling for everyone around here. I just feel so sorry for the victim’s family.”
The fatal stabbing adds to a grim tally of knife-related violence in the capital, with local councillors and campaigners once again calling for action to tackle knife crime.
Richmond Council Leader, Gareth Roberts, issued a statement on Sunday afternoon, saying:
“This is an appalling tragedy and my thoughts are with the family and friends of the young man who has lost his life.
“We must continue to work together — residents, police and local authorities — to address the causes of violence and prevent further loss of life.”
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Scotland Yard urged anyone with information, including dashcam or CCTV footage from the area, to come forward.
The force said: “If you have any information, no matter how small, please contact police via 101 quoting reference CAD 7553/27Apr.
“Alternatively, you can remain anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The murder investigation remains ongoing, and a post-mortem examination is expected to take place in the coming days to formally establish the cause of death.
Twickenham, well known for its rugby stadium and typically quiet residential streets, has rarely seen incidents of such violence, making Saturday night’s events all the more shocking for the local community.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant but reassured that police are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of the area while investigations continue.
