Detectives seek to trace Barnet man following murder of woman

Detectives investigating the murder of a woman in Barnet have released an image of a man they urgently need to trace.

James Duncan, aged 21 from the Barnet area, is known to the victim. He fled Dale Grove, Finchley at around midnight on Monday, 8 June and has not yet been found despite extensive work by police.

Emergency services were called to a property in the road just before 00:15hrs but despite the best efforts of paramedics from the London Ambulance Service, a 19-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Although officers responded to reports of gunshots, her cause of death cannot be confirmed at this stage as a post-mortem examination is yet to take place.

The victim’s family continue to be supported by specialist officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, said: “My team are working around the clock to locate James Duncan, and piece together the incident that resulted in the death of a much-loved young woman, daughter and sister.

“I urge people with information – especially those who have details on James’ whereabouts - or anyone with relevant doorbell or dashcam footage from Dale Grove to immediately contact police.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, said: “I understand that this incident – and an appeal of this nature - will cause concern within the community.

“Keeping residents safe is our top priority and I would like to provide reassurance that we believe this to be an isolated incident. As enquiries continue, residents will see an increased police presence in the area and I encourage anyone with concerns to speak with those officers on the ground.”

Detectives advise the public to not approach James Duncan and dial 999 if he is seen.

Anyone with information about his movements or location is asked to call 101, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 – quoting 34/8JUN.