Man arrested after murder investigation launched in Carshalton

A murder investigation is under way after a woman was found with stab wounds in Carshalton.

Police were called at approximately 10:30hrs on Thursday, 19 December to reports of a woman found injured inside an address in Nutfield Close.

Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Although formal identification is yet to take place, officers have named her as 42-year-old Gemma Devonish. Her family has been informed and is being supported by specially trained officers.

A post-mortem examination will be held in due course.

A 38-year-old man was arrested in the early hours of Friday, 20 December on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. He and Gemma were known to each other and, at this time, detectives are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.

The investigation is being led by detectives from the Specialist Crime Command.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila said: “Our thoughts today are with Gemma’s family and friends who are trying to come to terms with this truly tragic event. We are offering them all the support that we can.

“We know that the wider community will also be impacted and I would urge anyone with concerns to please speak with local officers.

“While we have made an arrest detectives continue to carry out a number of enquiries as we build a picture of the events that led to this horrific murder.

“I would ask anyone who was in the area of Nutfield Close who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, particularly on Wednesday 18 or morning of Thursday 19 December, to make contact.”

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, from the South Area Command Unit responsible for policing in Sutton said:

“I share the shock and concern that this terrible incident will have on the local community in Sutton. A team of specialist detectives is already making significant progress in this investigation and have swiftly arrested a man who is now in police custody.

“Local residents will see an increased number of officers in and around Nutfield Close while important investigative work is carried out. I want to thank residents for their patience while this continues and would urge anyone with concerns to speak to one of them so they can assist.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 7175 2206 or via 101 quoting CAD 3012/19Dec.

To remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.