Man charged with murder of Annabel Rook

Met detectives investigating the murder of Annabel Rook have charged a man.

Clifton George, 44 (13.03.81), of Dumont Road, Hackney, was charged on Sunday, 22 June with the murder of 46-year-old Annabel. He was also charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

He has been remanded in custody to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 June.

Annabel died on Tuesday, 17 June, having been found with stab wounds at an address on Dumont Road.

A man was arrested for murder at the scene shortly after officers arrived and taken to hospital with slash injuries. He was later discharged and released into police custody before being charged.

Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who is in charge of policing for the Central East Basic Command Unit, said:

“Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Annabel as they navigate this devastating loss.

“We ask that the public refrain from speculation and respect their privacy at this time, and we thank the Hackney community for their ongoing support.”

Police were called at 04:57hrs to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside and attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

Despite their efforts, Annabel was sadly declared dead at the scene.

Her family continue to be supported by specialist officers.