Following a Met Police investigation, a man has been found guilty of murdering Anna Maria Murariu in Ealing earlier this year.

Mugurel Nica, 51 (10.03.1974) of Jubilee Road, Perivale was found guilty by a jury at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday, 17 September of murdering 46-year-old Anna Maria after a seven-day trial.

Detective Inspector Richard Kempshall, who led the investigation, said: “Today’s conviction will not return a mother to her children, and it will not take away the pain felt by this family. I hope however that it serves as a starting point for their recovery. They have shown incredible strength in the most difficult of times.

“Anna Maria was a victim of domestic violence in a toxic relationship, which has sadly resulted in her death. It is our hope that anyone else suffering such violence may consider reaching out and asking for help when they hear of Anna Maria’s story.

“I wish to take this opportunity to praise both the efforts made by the first responders to save Anna Maria’s life and the tireless work of the investigating officers and prosecution team to achieve justice on her behalf.

“This has been an emotive case for all involved but it has been my privilege to work on behalf of Anna Maria’s family and with such a dedicated team.”

A murder investigation was launched on Friday, 28 February after police were called to Jubilee Road at 01:40hrs following a 999 call.

Police arrived and found Anna Maria’s body – CPR was carried out by officers in an effort to save her life before paramedics arrived. She died at the scene as a result of her stab wounds.

Mugurel was arrested at the scene before being charged with murder on Saturday, 1 March.

His sentencing at Southwark Crown Court is expected to take place on Thursday, 2 October.