Police seeking man following murder of woman in North Finchley

Detectives want to question James Duncan, 21, about the incident that took place in Dale Grove early yesterday morning

A man sitting at a table — James Duncan, who police want to trace in connection with a murder investigation (Credit – Met Police)

Police investigating the murder of a woman in North Finchley yesterday morning have released an image of a man they “urgently need to trace”.

The police say James Duncan, 21, who is from the Barnet area, is known to the victim. He fled an address in Dale Grove at around midnight yesterday morning and has not been found.

Emergency services were called to the property at 12.15am and a 19-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Allam Bhangoo, who is leading the investigation, said: “My team are working around the clock to locate James Duncan, and piece together the incident that resulted in the death of a much-loved young woman, daughter and sister.

“I urge people with information – especially those who have details on James’ whereabouts – or anyone with relevant doorbell or dashcam footage from Dale Grove to immediately contact police.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, said: “I understand that this incident – and an appeal of this nature – will cause concern within the community.

“Keeping residents safe is our top priority and I would like to provide reassurance that we believe this to be an isolated incident. As enquiries continue, residents will see an increased police presence in the area and I encourage anyone with concerns to speak with those officers on the ground.”

The police are advising the public not to approach Duncan and to dial 999 if they see him.

Anyone with information about his movements or location is asked to call 101, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 – quoting 34/8JUN.

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