A 26-YEAR-OLD care worker who was shot dead last night has been named as Magda Pniewska.

The Polish woman was thought to have been caught in crossfire in John Williams Close, New Cross, at 6.20pm last night.

Officers attended after reports of gunfire and found the woman outside Stunnell House suffering a gunshot wound to the head.

The victim was taken by ambulance to King's College Hospital, in London, where she was later pronounced dead at 7.40pm.

Speaking from the scene this afternoon, Detective Chief Inspector Tony Boughton said police were looking for a red Volkswagon Polo parked in the car park.

There was a man standing by the passenger side and another man at the top of the car park stairs.

He said: "From witnesses accounts they opened fire on each other, caught in the crossfire was an innocent woman who worked in the nursing home here.

"She's been working in this country for at least four years and she was making her way home."

BUPA Care Homes south east regional director, Oliver Thomas said: "We are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden and tragic death of Magda Pniewska.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to her family and friends - our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.

"Magda was a truly lovely person and one of our most dedicated carers.

"She'll be hugely missed by both her colleagues and residents.

"We are co-ordinating fully with the police investigation and supporting our staff and residents at Manley Court Nursing Centre.

"The inquiry into her death is a criminal investigation, we can say no more at this time."

A colleague added: "She was about to organise a party for the residents here today. She was very cheerful and very playful."

A post-mortem examination is due to take place today at Greenwich mortuary and an inquest will also be opened and adjourned.

A neighbour said: "I heard about three gun shots. My son was in the other room and he said it must be fireworks.

"The next thing I saw were ambulances and police."

Another resident said: "All I heard was some noises outside the window, next thing I know police were out there.

"I thought it was a firework til I saw the police. And I thought that's a bit close to home."

Detectives from Operation Trident, which investigates gun crime in the black community, are dealing the murder.

If you have any information about the incident, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or call the incident room on 020 8247 4553.

  • Three men and a woman have been arrested and a red VW car has been seized. No weapons have been recovered so far.
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