Detectives investigating the fatal stabbing of a woman in South Ealing yesterday have identified the victim and made a second arrest.

Ania Jedrkowiak, 21, was found with multiple stab wounds in Robert's Alley off Church Gardens shortly after midnight on Tuesday (May 17).

Officers, paramedics and London's Air Ambulance attended but Ania, a Polish national, was pronounced dead at the scene. 

A 20-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released with no further action taken. Police have now revealed a second person, a 29-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of murder yesterday. He remains in custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, who is leading the investigation, said: "We have now made a second arrest, which we believe is a very significant one in this investigation. The victim and suspect were known to each other.

"We are examining CCTV and speaking to any witnesses who have come forward. However, we are always keen to hear from anyone else who has not yet spoken to us but who thinks they may have seen or heard anything, no matter how small, that could help.

"In particular we would urge anyone who lives or was travelling in the area of South Ealing Road, between 11.15pm on Monday, 16 May and 1am the next day, or anyone who has CCTV or a doorbell camera, or a dash cam, to check it for anything that appears out of the ordinary."

Chief Superintendent Sean Wilson, who is in charge of policing for west London, including Ealing, said: "This is a tragic incident that I know has come as a shock to the local community.

"Officers remain at the scene as our searches and forensic examinations continue. We will also have additional visible patrols in the local area tonight and in the coming days.

"We are grateful to those who live and work nearby for their support and understanding as we continue our work. We recognise the inconvenience it has caused.

"Where possible we have taken steps to allow businesses and other venues such as the local church to reopen as soon as our investigation allowed.

"I am particularly mindful of the proximity of this incident to a local school – something which meant the school had to remain closed on Tuesday.

"I know parents will be apprehensive and I'd like to reassure them that we are working with the school to make sure children can continue their learning with minimal disruption. We anticipate it will be able to reopen from Wednesday morning.