A grieving family says the death of their “brilliant” daughter in a north London flat has left them with “an immeasurable void” in their lives.
Clara Bale, 23, was found unresponsive at an address in Bollinder Place, Islington, just after 9.30am on 6 August, and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Four women aged 20, 21, 23 and 26 and two men aged 21 and 24 were arrested on suspicion of murder but have all since been released on bail.
Miss Bale’s family released a statement through the Metropolitan Police that said: “Clara was a brilliant young woman filled with dreams, a bright light whose loss has left an immeasurable void in our lives.
“She embodied hope, resilience and love. Her inspiring aura was felt in every room she entered and in every space she had yet to step into. A beloved friend, daughter and sister who cherished life above all else.
“Our hearts bleed with grief following her loss. We will forever miss her smile, her presence and her humanity.”
Some flats at Bollinder Place are available to rent at between £4,000 and £6,000 a month, with one two-bedroom flat on sale with an asking price of £800,000.
After Miss Bale died, one resident said her housemate saw water on the floor of the building and a man in handcuffs coming out of the lifts.
Michelle You, 30, who has lived in the area for more than two years, said: “My housemate said she saw a guy in handcuffs in the lift and she said there was loads of water on the ground. It was like they had caught him in the shower or something.”
Another resident said police had closed the spa in the basement of Valencia Tower while they conducted inquiries.
They added: “The police checked the spa in the basement. I think yesterday it was closed, and everyone was like, ‘Oh, I want to go to use the swimming pool, but it’s closed’.”
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Waller said officers have spoken to a number of witnesses and are working to establish the events that led to Miss Bale’s death.
“I would continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward and speak with officers. Every piece of information helps with our investigation,” he said.
Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference 3700/06AUG, or to remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
