27 February 2024 , 10:26
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A murder probe has been launched by police in east London after the “despicable” death of a person found at a train station.
British Transport Police (BTP) were called to Harold Wood railway station, on the Elizabeth Line, at around 4.30am when a member of staff found the victim badly hurt on the ground. Despite the best efforts of the BTP, Metropolitan Police Service and London Ambulance Service the as yet unnamed victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a statement, BTP confirmed a man has been arrested in connection and remains in police custody this morning.
Detective chief inspector Sam Blackburn said: "This act of unprovoked violence was despicable. The investigation remains in the early stages, and though we are satisfied this was an isolated incident the station will remain closed while we continue our enquiries.
"Anyone who witnessed the incident or is able to help us piece together the events leading up to it is asked to text 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 53 of 27/02/24. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
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The tragedy has caused travel disruption for commuters around east London as National Rail confirmed no trains will stop at the station for the remainder of today. They confirmed in a tweet: “The emergency services are dealing with an ongoing incident close to the railway in the area. To allow them to carry out their work, the station has been closed and no trains are able to call at Harold Wood station. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.”
Bus routes have also been affected by the tragedy, as Transport for London confirmed routes 256, 294, 347, 496 and 497 have been impacted by road closures and a detour is in place.