Nkiru Chima, 60, died on Sunday (July 27) after a stabbing in Bushy Close, which police believe is linked to the death of a man at Romford station.
The Recorder spoke to residents nearby, who said that although they did not know Nkiru personally, the incident has shocked the estate.
One Bushy Close resident Patsy Buttery said: “I’m just so upset that it has happened on this estate.
“It’s sad, it’s so sad.
“It’s a shame that there’s no real sense of community anymore – we used to look after each other.
“I feel just so sorry for the woman.”
READ MORE: Bushy Close, Romford stabbing: Victim named as Nkiru Chima
Another neighbour, who did not wish to be named, called her death a “tragedy” and said it was “heart-rending”.
Michelle Bailey, who also lives in Bushy Close, told the Recorder that the stabbing was “a shock” to the community.
She said: “I didn’t know the lady but obviously I used to see her pass by.
“I’m thinking of all the family at this time.
“It’s a big, big shock.”
Metropolitan Police officers were still at the scene when the Recorder visited on Wednesday (July 30), with police cars also in the vicinity.
A police appeal sent to neighbours urged anyone who was in the area between 6pm on Saturday (July 26) and 1pm on Sunday (July 27) – and who might have information about the incident – to get in touch.
It added that the suspect has been identified and detectives are not looking for anyone else in connection with the stabbing.
Det Sup Simon Giles, from the East Area investigations team said: “I understand that the incident is distressing for the community and we are working closely with our colleagues in the Specialist Crime Command to progress the investigation as quickly as possible.
“Those in the area today can expect to see our officers and we encourage anyone with any information to speak with them.”
Those with any information can also call 101, report online or contact ‘X’@METCC quoting CAD6914/27JUL.
