A man has died after being stabbed in the early hours of Sunday morning in Wimbledon.
London Ambulance Service paramedics were called at 12:37am to The Broadway, where a man in his 40s was found with stab wounds. He died shortly after emergency crews arrived.
A man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Officers have cordoned off part of The Broadway while forensic teams examine the scene, and the area remains closed to pedestrians.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is a shocking act of violence in the heart of a busy town, and we understand the impact this will have on the local community.”
Wimbledon residents said they were shocked to wake up to the police presence in one of the town’s busiest streets.
Luke, 30, said: “It’s shocking for this area. This isn’t something we see much of. It was surprising to walk by this morning and see all the police tape.”
Rory, 24, said: “I’ve heard all sorts of reasons why it happened. Some people are saying it’s racially motivated, but I haven’t heard anything confirmed.
“I ate in that restaurant a few months ago, so it’s really strange. It could have been me.”
A 50-year-old resident said: “There’s a bit of crime in Wimbledon, but not to that level. It’s shocking, especially at that time in the morning. It’s not like there are clubs open.”
Wimbledon is a ‘low crime level’ neighbourhood, with an estimated 47 crimes per 1000 residents, according to data.police.uk.
The Metropolitan Police said the incident is being treated as isolated. Enquiries into the circumstances of the stabbing are ongoing, and officers have not yet confirmed a motive. The victim’s next of kin have been informed.
Police are looking for anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to come forward, and no detail is too small.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting CAD 244/22FEB.
To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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