A woman who was attacked with hammer in Croydon this week has died.

Floriana Pastina, 36, died this morning from her injuries.

Detectives from the Met's Homicide and Major Crime Command have now launched a murder investigation.

The family of Florina Pastina said:

"We are heartbroken at the loss of a much loved sister and friend, who was a well respected teacher. Such a beautiful and kind person, who had so much more to give."

Ms Pastina was attacked at a residential address at 7.22am on Wednesday, July 19.

Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident in which a 25-year-old-male victim was also injured after being hit with a hammer. He was also taken to hospital and has since been discharged.

Police were called at 7.22am on Wednesday, July 19 to a residential address at Alpha Road, Croydon, to reports of a person stabbed.

Arriving at the scene officers found the 36-year-old-female victim had suffered severe head injuries and a 25-year-old man had received non life-threatening injuries.

A 34-year-old-man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.

He was also taken to hospital for treatment to non life-threatening injuries. He remains in hospital at this time.

Detectives are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident and all parties are believed to be known to each other.

The hammer concerned in the incident was found at the scene.

A post-mortem examination will be scheduled in due course.

Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh of the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command said: "I am particularly keen to hear from any neighbours or people who passed through Alpha Road at the time of the incident who may have seen or heard something that could assist with our investigation."

"Any piece of information, however small, will help my team build a picture of events that tragic morning."

Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command by dialling 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.