A murder investigation has been launched after a man was found dead with a stab wound to the heart in Whetstone.

Metropolitan Police said they suspect the death may have been an assault after officers were called to Chandos Avenue in Whetstone on Monday morning (March 20).

Emergency services attended after 6am following reports of an injured man.

A man, 44, was pronounced dead at the scene.

In an appeal launched today, police say they believe the man was called Stefan Stelian Moraru, a Romanian national.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

A post mortem held on Tuesday, 21 March established the cause of death as single stab wound to the heart.

Times Series: Stefan Stelian Moraru was found deadStefan Stelian Moraru was found dead (Image: Met Police)

At this early stage of the investigation, there have been no arrests.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil John said: "I would like to appeal to any witnesses who were in the area of Chandos Avenue and Whetstone High Street, N20 on Sunday, 19 March at approximately 10.30pm.

"Our enquiries suggest there was a disturbance or altercation on Chandos Avenue at or about this time and we are seeking any witnesses to this.

"I am particularly interested in anyone who may have had a dashcam when travelling through either of these roads at the time."

Anyone with information that could assist police is asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD968/20Mar, or call Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.