A young man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman known to him was stabbed to death in “an isolated incident”.
The victim, in her 40s, had been attacked at an address on Monier Road, Tower Hamlets.
Metropolitan Police officers attended the east London scene alongside London Ambulance Service at around 11pm on Thursday.
The force said: “Sadly, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Her next of kin have been made aware and are currently being supported by specialist officers.”
A man in his 20s detained over her killing remains in police custody.
Detective Superintendent Mike Cagney, who leads policing in Tower Hamlets, said a murder investigation has been launched.
He added: “We are currently supporting the family of a woman who was sadly killed in the early hours of this morning.
“I understand the local community will feel understandably shocked by this news, but I want to reassure residents we believe this to be an isolated incident, with no wider threat to the public.
“Although we have made significant progress by making an arrest, I would like to make it clear that our investigation does not stop here.
“Specialist officers are working at pace to make enquiries and understand exactly what took place.
“Local people may notice a higher police presence within the area today and would encourage anyone with concerns to speak to officers.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting CAD9509/26JAN, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
