Detectives have apprehended a suspect at Heathrow Airport on suspicion of murder, shortly after a tragic incident in which a man was struck and killed by a car in east London.
The Metropolitan Police launched an immediate investigation after receiving reports of a collision involving a car and a pedestrian in East Ham around 5:11 am. Upon arrival at the scene on Barking Road, near the junction with Arragon Road, officers discovered a 35-year-old man with serious injuries. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, the victim succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Following urgent inquiries, a 33-year-old man was arrested at Heathrow around 3:30 pm on Sunday. He is being held on suspicion of murder, while a 30-year-old woman has also been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both individuals remain in police custody pending further investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, expressed her condolences to the victim's family and assured them of ongoing support from family liaison officers. She appealed to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, particularly those attending an event in Barking Road overnight, to come forward with any relevant information, emphasizing the importance of their cooperation in the investigation.
While authorities believe there is no immediate risk to the wider community, additional police presence will be maintained in the area to reassure residents in the days ahead.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1281/24Mar. Photo by Callum Darragh, Wikimedia commons.