Detectives investigating a murder in Cricklewood have revealed the victim’s name and the image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with her death.
Police are hunting for Miles Donnelly, 34, following the discovery of the body of Usha Patel at her home in Melrose Avenue, on Thursday morning at 8.10am.
The 44-year-old was the mother of a young son believed to be aged five.
Investigating officers believed Donnelly, who is also known as Miles Ryan, and Miss Patel had made contact online and had arranged to meet.
Donnelly, whose last address was in Paddington, is about 5ft 11ins tall.
Detectives are warning the public not approach him but call 999.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Bonner, who is leading the murder hunt, said: “Enquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances of Usha’s death and as part of these enquiries I am very keen to speak to Miles Donnelly, aka Miles Ryan, as he may have information which could assist me.
“I would appeal directly to him to contact the police so that we can speak to him.
“It is possible that he will look to friends and associates for support, and I urge them not to get involved but to contact us instead.
“I would like to reassure anyone who is worried about contacting the police that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity.”
A post-mortem examination to establish the cause of Ms Patel’s death is due to take place today.
Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8358 0200 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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