A fatal shooting in north-west London has claimed the life of a woman and left two men injured, prompting a murder investigation. The incident occurred on Saturday evening, around 21:15 GMT, in Harlesden.
The Metropolitan Police responded to reports of gunfire and found a woman, believed to be in her 40s, who tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Alongside her, two men in their 30s were also discovered injured. One of the men is in critical condition, while the other sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Community in Shock
The violence has left the local community reeling. Residents reported hearing multiple gunshots, with one individual recounting hearing “five gunshots in a row.” The River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church on Gifford Road, located near the crime scene, has been surrounded by a police cordon as officers continue their investigation.
A man who lives near the scene shared his experience with PA News Agency, describing the chaos that ensued: “I was inside the church, and someone rushed in saying there had been a shooting. When I looked outside, it was pandemonium.”
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Superintendent Tony Josephs of the Metropolitan Police expressed his condolences to the community, describing the incident as a “truly shocking” act of violence. “This has left a woman dead and two others injured. I understand the concern this will cause, not just locally but across London,” he said.
He added that a dedicated team of detectives is working tirelessly to reconstruct the events leading up to the shooting and to identify the perpetrator(s). “I want to reassure people that experienced officers are already working at pace to ensure justice is served,” Supt Josephs stated.
No arrests have been made at this time. Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
A Community Gripped by Fear
For the residents of Harlesden, the shooting has highlighted concerns about safety and the prevalence of violent crime in the area. “It’s terrifying to think something like this can happen so close to home,” said one local resident who wished to remain anonymous.
This incident adds to growing concerns over gun violence in London, a city that has seen fluctuating crime rates in recent years.
Police Presence in Harlesden
The junction of Gifford Road and Creukhorne Road remains cordoned off as forensic teams comb the area for evidence. Residents have been advised to avoid the area while police continue their work.
Local councillors and community leaders are expected to address the incident in the coming days, as they aim to reassure residents and discuss measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Appeal for Information
As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging the public to assist in providing any information that might be relevant. Whether it’s witnesses who were near the scene or individuals who might have captured footage or photographs, police are eager for leads to help bring those responsible to justice.
Members of the public can contact the police directly or anonymously through the Crimestoppers hotline. Supt Josephs emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving crimes: “Every piece of information matters, no matter how small it may seem.”
Conclusion
The Harlesden shooting is a grim reminder of the impact of violence on families and communities. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring justice for the victims and addressing the concerns of a shaken community. The Metropolitan Police continues its appeal for information, hoping to shed light on the events of that tragic Saturday night.
