A schizophrenic resident of a hostel for vulnerable people is being hunted by police after a woman, believed to be a member of staff, was found dead today, police said.
Scotland Yard said they would like to speak to Michael Meanza, 47, who was last seen leaving the hostel in Acton, West London, shortly before the discovery of the woman's body at around 6.40am.
The woman, in her 30s, is believed to have worked at the hostel in Perryn Road, which is understood to be a supported living service for vulnerable people.
Meanza, previously known as Michael Condon, suffers from schizophrenia and requires regular medication which it is believed he does not have with him.
Police are advising the public not to approach him but call 999 as he could pose a danger. He is known to frequent Ealing, Acton and Hammersmith
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Partridge, from the homicide and major crime command, said: "We are the very early stages of this murder investigation, but I am keen to speak to Michael Meanza in connection with the incident.
"I would urge anyone who sees him to contact the police immediately and not approach him.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone else who may have information about his whereabouts to contact the police. I would like to reassure them that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity."
London Ambulance Service attended the incident and a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
A police statement added: "The location is believed to be a supported living service for vulnerable people. At this early stage it is also believed that the victim was a member of staff."
Meanza is described as a white man of large build. It is believed he may be wearing light grey or beige trousers, a dark blue hooded top, white trainers and a black or blue cap. It is also believed that he may be carrying a portable radio.
Next of kin have been informed of the death but formal identification has yet to take place.
A post-mortem examination will happen in due course, police said.