A MURDER investigation is underway following a stabbing in South Ealing.

Police were called at 10 minutes past midnight  today (17) to reports of a stabbing in an alleyway off Church Gardens.

A 21-year-old woman was found to have suffered a number of stab injuries.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers are confident they know the woman's identity and are in the process of informing her next of kin.

A man aged has been arrested on suspicion of murder and taken into custody.

Commander Sean Wilson, responsible for policing in Ealing, said: “This is a truly shocking incident which will understandably cause significant concern among the community and Londoners as a whole.

“Violence of any kind, but particularly against women and girls, has a profound impact and this will understandably impact on the confidence of those in the area going about their daily business.

“I want to reassure the Ealing community that a team of specialist detectives will use their skills and experience to ensure that whoever is responsible is brought to justice.

“My local officers will also be in and around the area in South Ealing.

“If you have any concerns I would encourage you to approach them and speak to them.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 77/17May. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.