Man arrested on suspicion of murder of Maria Rawlings

A 20-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, 9 May on suspicion of murdering Maria Rawlings

He was taken to an east London police station where he remains in custody.

Police were called at 2pm on Tuesday, 4 May after Maria’s body was found in Little Heath, Redbridge, by a member of the public.

A post-mortem examination at Walthamstow Mortuary on Wednesday, 5 May, gave a preliminary cause for Maria’s death as neck compression and possible blunt force head trauma.

Detective Chief Inspector David Hillier, who is leading the murder investigation, said “My thoughts remain with Maria’s family at this incredibly difficult time.

“I continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact police via the incident room on 020 8345 3865; via 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD3551/4May.”

Additional officers will remain in the local area to provide reassurance to the community.