Woman, 19, dies after gunshots heard at house

A 19-year-old woman has died after gunshots were heard at a house in north London, the Metropolitan Police has said.

Officers were called by the London Ambulance Service to the property in Dale Grove, Finchley, just after midnight on Monday.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family has been told and are being supported by specially trained officers.

No arrests have been made and police are working to establish what happened.

Geraldine Haren, who lives nearby, said: “I’m really shocked to hear the news. It’s quite sad.

“It’s a very family-friendly [area]. We get on with each other. We have a community garden,” she said.

“It’s such a quiet area. I just feel a bit sick. I feel for the family.”

Another resident Faz Saj, 37, who lives in Dale Grove with his father, said he returned home with his wife and children to find the road closed off.

He said: “It’s a bit out of character for this neighbourhood, to be honest.

“I’m still shocked, to be honest with you.”

Det Ch Insp Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are with the young woman’s family at this incredibly difficult time as they begin to come to terms with their loss.

“We understand the concern this incident will cause within the community. While our enquiries are ongoing, residents can expect to see an increased police presence over the coming days, and I encourage anyone with concerns to speak with officers.”

A formal identification and post-mortem examination is yet to take place.

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