Taped-up woman 'died from cold'

Eveline Kelmenson lived alone

Police say an 83-year-old woman found with her legs wrapped in duct tape at her north London house may have died from hypothermia.

Eveline Kelmenson was found dead at the three-storey house in Leweston Place, Stamford Hill, on New Year's Day.

Murder squad detectives launched an investigation when she was discovered after a niece raised concerns.

Police said Mrs Kelmenson had no obvious injuries and they were searching for evidence of a break-in.

They are also reviewing their investigation into an incident last year when the pensioner, who lived alone and was unmarried, was targeted by thieves posing as gardeners.

A post-mortem examination proved inconclusive and further tests will be conducted.

Officers accompanied by paramedics forced their way into the house shortly before 1700 GMT on 1 January.

Neighbours said Mrs Kelmenson, known to family and friends as Lina, had lived in the house for as long as people on the street could remember.

Mrs Kelmenson once lived at the property with her four brothers and sisters, none of whom ever married, neighbours said.

One neighbour said Mrs Kelmenson cared for her siblings until their deaths and then asked to be left alone.

Two men in their 20s arrested in connection with her death have both been released on bail until February.