Cheam murder: Victim named as Aliny Mendes as family pays tribute

Ms Mendes died despite the best efforts of paramedics in London Road, after reportedly being stabbed multiple times by her attacker at around 3pm on Friday, February 8.

Her family, understood to be from Brazil, have released a tribute to the 39-year-old mum-of-four: “My sister was lovely, always thinking about everyone but mostly her children.

"She had a wonderful heart and there was no one else like her. She was a caring sister and worried about everyone. She was always making sure everyone was ok. She tried to help everyone where she could.

"She loved to cook and would organise surprise parties for friends and family giving cakes and presents she was loved by everyone. Everything she did was for the love for her children.”

Read more: More than £25k raised for family of  mum-of-four Aliny Mendes

Witnesses described two men juming out of a black 4x4 before "one chased her and grabbed her" during the attack.

Surrey Police confirmed shortly after that two men had been arrested, but a man in his 50s initially detained on suspicion of assisting an offender, has since been released with no further action to be taken against him.

A man in his 40s from Epsom remains in custody on suspicion of murder as the investigation continues.

Read more: Cheam residents and witnesses speak out after woman stabbed to death near Nonsuch Park

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Chapman said: “This was a tragic incident where sadly a woman lost her life as a result of the injuries she sustained. At this time we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident, and we do not believe anyone else was injured. The coroner has been informed.

“The victim’s children are being provided with the support and immediate care they need at this difficult time.

Read more: Murder victim confirmed to be a mum as details of suspects emerge

“We have carried out house to house enquiries and have already spoken to multiple witnesses who have come forward. If you witnessed the incident and have not already spoken to us, please come forward. I would also ask that anyone who was in the area and travelling in a vehicle with dash cam or helmet footage that you review it in case you have anything that can help us piece together a timeline of what led to this tragic death.

“The incident took place during the day and is likely to have a traumatic effect on the people who witnessed the incident and the subsequent police activity. I would encourage anyone who has been affected by the incident to speak to someone they feel comfortable talking to, whether this is a friend, relative, or a medical professional, it is vital that you do not bottle up your feelings, it is ok to talk."

Read more: Two men arrested after woman stabbed to death near Cheam school

Anyone with information should contact Surrey Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or http://surrey.police.uk/TellUsMore quoting reference PR/45190014238.

You can also give information, 100% anonymously, to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111; or through their anonymous online form: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/