Wembley ‘murders’: Two sisters die in London park after birthday party

Police launch murder investigation

Two sisters have been found dead in a London park where they had reportedly celebrated one of their birthdays.

A murder investigation has been launched, according to police.

Nicole Smallman, aged 27, and Bibaa Henry, aged 46, were found unresponsive in a park in Wembley on Sunday afternoon, the Metropolitan Police said.

The sisters were pronounced dead at the scene in northwest London.

Police said they believe the women had a small party for Ms Henry’s birthday with around 10 others in Fryent Country Park on Friday evening, with people gradually leaving until the women were alone.

Ms Smallman, from Harrow, and Ms Henry, from Brent, were found on Sunday after they were reported missing late on Saturday.

Their deaths are being treated as suspicious, and police have launched a murder investigation.

No arrests had been made as of Monday afternoon, the Met Police said.

“We are in the very early stages of the investigation and are working hard to find out what led to these two women losing their lives,” senior investigating officer DCI Simon Harding said. “Their families have been devastated by their loss and they need answers.”

He called for anyone in Fryent Country Park, Slough Lane, on the evening of 5 June or early into 6 June to contact police.

“The area the group were situated in is around a five minute walk from the Valley Drive entrance of the park, leading to a hill area,” he said, adding it was a “well-known spot to sit and look over London”.

“You may have stumbled upon items of property, but not realised the significance of them,” he said. “If you did, you may well have information that could assist us hugely. No matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact us via the incident room on 0208 721 4205, or via 101.”

Roy Smith, the northwest borough commander, said: “We are working closely with the investigation team to ensure we get answers to what has happened.

“Local officers will be conducting reassurance patrols and will be happy to speak to any concerned residents.”

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 3160/7Jun. Alternatively, people can anonymously call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.