Police are searching for a 49-year-old man as part of a murder investigation after two bodies were found within hours of each other at separate London addresses.

Officers are trying to locate Lee Peacock and have asked people to contact the police immediately if they know of his whereabouts.

It follows emergency services being called to Ashbridge Street in Westminister just after 9.30pm on Thursday after concerns were raised for the wellbeing of people inside the property.

A 45-year-old woman was found with a knife injury and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

At 2.15am on Friday, police were alerted to reports of a man with a knife injury at a property in Jerome Crescent, about half a mile away.

Paramedics confirmed a 59-year-old man had died.

Inquiries are under way to trace the woman’s next of kin, while the man’s next of kin have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers.

No arrests have been made.

Lead investigator Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley said: “I would urge anybody that knows the whereabouts of Lee Peacock to contact police immediately by calling 999.

“If seen, we would urge the public not to approach him, but contact police as soon as possible.

“At this early stage we are retaining an open mind concerning motive, but at this stage we are treating these crimes as linked.

“We are very keen to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious around Ashbridge Street or Jerome Crescent overnight. No matter how small or insignificant you think your information might be, please do get in touch.”

Police cordons continue to be in place and additional police resources and patrols have been deployed throughout the area to provide local reassurance.

People witnessing anything suspicious are asked to call 101, quoting reference 7227/19AUG

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