A murder investigation has been launched after a woman was beheaded with a machete.

Police were called to reports of a man armed with a knife in Nightingale Road, Edmonton, at 1.07pm.

Although the Metropolitan Police have not confirmed reports that the woman was beheaded, witnesses at the scene believe this to be the case.

Witnesses also reported seeing a man beheading cats in the moments leading up to the attack.

The woman, who has not yet been identified, was found collapsed in a garden and pronounced dead at the scene.

A 25-year-old man has been arrested near the scene and he was arrested on suspicion of murder.

He was tasered after one firearms officers was injured during the course of the arrest and is believed to be suffering a broken wrist.

The Met says that they are not prepared to comment on the exact nature of the woman’s injuries or the type of weapon used.

Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

DCI John Sandlin, who is leading this investigation, said: “This is was a highly visible attack in broad daylight on a residential street. I can understand why this may cause people concern, however we are confident that we are not looking for anyone else at this stage.

"Whilst it is too early to speculate on what the motive behind this attack was I am confident, based on the information currently available to me, that it is not terrorist related.

"Local officers and specialist detectives are at the scene and will remain there for many hours to come.

"Specially trained family liaison officers will be deployed to support the family; we request that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time."

The Homicide and Major Crime Command are leading the investigation.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Incident Room on 020 8345 3865, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.