A murder investigation has been started in east London after a double stabbing in which a man died after being discovered by police in a flat in Bow Common.

East London Advertiser: Bow Common Lane cordoned off by police after double stabbing. Picture: MIKE BROOKEBow Common Lane cordoned off by police after double stabbing. Picture: MIKE BROOKE (Image: Archant)

Police were called at 11.20pm last night where a man, 54, was found in the street in Bow Common Lane, near Mile End, with a stab wound and head injuries.

He was taken to hospital where his condition is stable, but not life-threatening.

The injured man told police on the way to hospital that another man was injured inside a flat.

East London Advertiser: Bow Common Lane cordoned off by police after double stabbing. Picture: MIKE BROOKEBow Common Lane cordoned off by police after double stabbing. Picture: MIKE BROOKE (Image: Archant)

Officers then found a 60-year-old with stab injuries inside the flat and gave emergency first aid until an ambulance arrived—but he died at 6am today before he could be taken to hospital.

Detectives from the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command believe they know who the dead man was, but are trying to trace and inform next of kin before a formal identification.

Bow Common Lane has been cordoned off between St Paul’s Way traffic lights and Thomas Road while forensic experts examine the scene.

East London Advertiser: Bow Common Lane cordoned off by police after double stabbing. Picture: MIKE BROOKEBow Common Lane cordoned off by police after double stabbing. Picture: MIKE BROOKE (Image: Archant)

People living inside the cordoned-off area are having to show identity leaving or returning to their homes. Traffic is also being diverted.

There have been no arrests so far, Scotland Yard said today.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who were in Bow Common Lane late last night or anyone with information to call the incident room at Barking on 020 8345 3734, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or Crimestoppers online.