Man, 20, charged with murder of mother-of-two Maria Rawlings
10 May 2021, 14:54 | Updated: 10 May 2021, 19:31
A 20-year-old man has been charged with the murder of mother-of-two Maria Rawlings.
Valentin Lazar was charged on Monday following the death of Ms Rawlings, 45, whose body was found in Little Heath, Romford last week.
He will appear in custody at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Ms Rawlings was discovered by a man walking his dog at around 2pm on Tuesday 4 May.
Police believe she was attacked after leaving the King George Hospital in Goodmayes, Ilford, the previous evening, walking to Barley Lane in the direction of the A12.
A post-mortem examination found that she had been strangled and had suffered head injuries.
Detective Chief Inspector David Hillier, who is leading the murder investigation, said: "My thoughts remain with Maria's family at this incredibly difficult time.
"I continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact police."
Homicide detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation.
Those with information can contact the incident room on 020 8345 3865 or by calling 101 or tweeting @MetCC, and quoting the reference CAD3551/4May.
