Judith Nibbs was beheaded following an alleged argument with estranged husband Dempsey Nibbs.
Judith Nibbs was beheaded following an alleged argument with estranged husband Dempsey Nibbs. Facebook

The dismembered body of a mother of two has been found in an east London flat following an alleged row with her estranged husband.

Judith Nibbs, 60, was beheaded following an argument with Dempsey Nibbs, 67, who turned his knife on himself, causing serious injuries.

He was taken to hospital at 5am on Friday and is still in a critical condition. Police are waiting to question him.

Neighbours reported hearing screams and banging before police arrived.

Dean Cummings, 28, who was born and bred on the estate, said: "I've known her all my life. She was a nice lady and didn't have a bad word to say about anybody.

"She was always happy, with a smile on her face. She had a disabled daughter and an older son who's about 25. She worked for her kids. The daughter's in a home. Who's going to bankroll that now? It's just so sad."

Mrs Nibbs had worked for Hackney Borough Council for six years, providing meals on wheels for the elderly in addition to caring for her disabled daughter.

Tributes were laid in front of the flat where the body was discovered, with one message reading: "We'll all miss you. Love and kisses, Meals on Wheels."

Next of kin have been informed of the death but the body has not yet been formally identified. A post-mortem examination is expected to take place early next week.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "A murder investigation has been launched in Hackney. Police were called by paramedics at around 5am to Charles Square Estate following concerns for the welfare of a resident.

"Officers attended and found a 60-year-old woman deceased at the location. A 67-year-old man was taken by ambulance to an east London hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

"There have been no arrests. Detectives are not looking for anyone else in connection with the investigation."