A murder investigation has been launched after a woman who suffered serious head injuries in a "horrific assault" died.

Officers were called to Cranbrook Road, Ilford, at 2.44am today (Sunday 26) after a woman, 36, was found with serious head injuries.

She was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service in a critical condition but has died later this morning. 

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The investigation is now being led by homicide detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Specialist Crime unit.

Police say the victim was walking along Cranbrook Road in the direction of Gants Hill Station when she was attacked.

A crime scene is still in place and part of the road remains closed. 

The victim’s family are now aware, but formal identification has not yet taken place.

Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell said: “The woman had been subjected to a horrific assault and sadly passed away as a result of her injuries."

Police say people in the area will see a significant police presence in the area today and in the coming days.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, of the Met’s Specialist Crime North Command, is leading the investigation and said: “It is vital that my officers speak with every possible witness and everyone with information that may assist the investigation.

"We are appealing for anyone who was in the Cranbrook Road area of Ilford between 2am and 3am on Sunday morning to get in touch, including anyone who drove through the area and may have dashcam footage.

"We also want to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the wider Ilford area overnight.”

No arrests have been made.

Police are asking anyone with information or CCTV footage, or any witnesses to call the major incident room on 0208 345 3715.