66-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Murder After Filmmaker Found Dead with Tape Over Mouth in London Flat

A 66-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of acclaimed filmmaker Jennifer Abbott—also known as Sarah Steinberg—whose body was discovered in her Camden home with stab wounds and tape over her mouth.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest took place on Wednesday, June 19, as part of an ongoing homicide investigation. The suspect remains in custody as inquiries continue.

Officers were called to a property on Mornington Place in Camden, North London, at approximately 6:00 p.m. on June 13, after reports of an unresponsive woman. Upon arrival, emergency services found the 63-year-old filmmaker deceased, with visible stab injuries. A post-mortem examination later confirmed the cause of death as sharp force trauma.

Abbott had last been seen walking her dog on June 10. Concerns grew after family members were unable to reach her. She was eventually found by her niece and neighbours, who forced entry into the flat and discovered her lifeless body in bed, wrapped in a blanket, with tape across her mouth. Her pet corgi, reportedly locked in the bathroom for three days, survived the ordeal.

The Metropolitan Police are also investigating the possible theft of a diamond-encrusted Rolex watch from her home as a potential motive in the case.

Detective Inspector Barry Hart of the Met’s Homicide Command, Specialist Crime North, stated: “Our deepest sympathies are with the victim’s loved ones, who are being supported by specialist officers at this time. This arrest marks a significant step forward. There are several lines of enquiry ongoing, and we are working hard to establish the exact circumstances of this incident. Locals can expect to see an increased police presence in the area while we conduct our enquiries.”

Neighbours described Abbott as kind, well-mannered, and private, though she was seen walking her dog regularly. One neighbour recounted assisting Abbott’s niece in gaining access to the flat, where they made the grim discovery.

Abbott, known in the industry as Sarah Steinberg, directed the award-winning 2010 documentary War of the Gods. She had been photographed with global celebrities including Paris Hilton and Kate Hudson and was a well-known figure in London’s creative and social circles.

Police have appealed to the public for any information that may assist in their investigation.