Man arrested for the murder of Maria Rawlings.

Detectives investigating the murder of Maria Rawlings have made an arrest. A 20-year-old man was arrested on Sunday, 9 May on suspicion of murder.

He was taken to an east London police station where he remains in custody.

Maria’s family have been informed.

Police were called at 14:00hrs on Tuesday, 4 May after Maria’s body was found in Little Heath, Romford, by a member of public.

A post-mortem examination at Walthamstow Mortuary on Wednesday, 5 May, gave a preliminary cause for Maria’s death as neck compression and possible blunt force head trauma.

Detective Chief Inspector David Hillier, who is leading the murder investigation, said “My thoughts remain with Maria’s family at this incredibly difficult time.

“I continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact police via the incident room on 020 8345 3865; via 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD3551/4May.”

Additional officers will remain in the local area to provide reassurance to the community.