A pensioner has been arrested on suspicion of murdering his wife after walking into a police station in east London.
The 79-year-old told officers around 9.30pm on Tuesday that he had assaulted his spouse at their home in Elm Park, Hornchurch, on Tuesday night.
Police and paramedics rushed to the property where they found the 77-year-old woman suffering head injuries.
She was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The couple’s family are “desperately trying to understand what has happened”, say police.
A crime scene remained in place at the property on Wednesday afternoon, and a homicide investigaion is underway. A post-mortem is due to take place.
Police are appealing for anyone with information about what happened to get in touch.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, said: “Although a person is in custody, this is still an active investigation and we are gathering as much information as possible.
“If you know anything that could assist detectives, please contact us at the incident room. We have a family desperately trying to understand what has happened - your information could give them the answers they need and deserve.”
Detective Superintendent Richard Vandenbergh of East Area Basic Command Unit, added that extra police officers will be on patrol in the area.
“I understand how upsetting this awful crime will be for the local community,” he said. “We are working with our partners and community groups to provide as much information as we can. I also want to reassure everyone that we are supporting our colleagues in Specialist Crime, as they carry out a detailed and thorough investigation.
“Extra officers will also be patrolling and please do approach these officers and speak to them if you have any questions - they are there to listen to you and act on your concerns.”
Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call the incident room on 0208 345 3715 or contact via Twitter @MetCC. Please quote Operation Aimgrip.
To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
