A woman found dead in a North London home following a suspected gas explosion has been identified as 46-year-old Annabel Rook, a dedicated charity worker who supported refugee and migrant women. Ms Rook was discovered with fatal stab wounds at a terraced property on Dumont Road, Stoke Newington, just before 5am on Tuesday. Police believe the incident was domestic in nature.
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The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest of a 44-year-old man on suspicion of murder. He remains in hospital receiving treatment for self-inflicted slash wounds. Authorities are not seeking anyone else in connection with the case. Two children, aged seven and nine, were also taken to hospital as a precautionary measure. It is believed they were not inside the property at the time of the explosion.
Ms Rook was a co-founder of MamaSuze CIC, a community interest company that offers art and drama-based support to refugee and migrant women, many of whom have fled domestic abuse. According to her LinkedIn profile, she worked with marginalised and displaced communities for more than two decades.
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said: “We believe this is a domestic-related incident. A thorough investigation is underway, and support is being provided to the family.”
Neighbours reported waking up to a loud explosion. Local resident and teacher Alun Gordon described the blast: “We just woke up to a massive bang. My whole house shook—it felt like a truck had hit it.”
Emergency services responded quickly, with six fire engines and 40 firefighters dispatched to the scene. The explosion caused significant damage to the house, blowing out the front bay window and scattering debris, including glass, shutters and plants, across the street.
Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who is leading the investigation, expressed condolences: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are with the victim’s family at this very difficult time.”
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She added that interviews with the suspect would be conducted “as soon as he is medically able”. Residents in Hackney should expect an increased police presence as the investigation continues. Road closures remain in place around Dumont Road while police, fire crews and gas engineers assess the scene.
