Emergency services were called to Woolwich New Road, in Woolwich, at 5.25pm today, with police later confirming there had been a "fatal stabbing". Armed police were pictured running into the Tesco as witnesses on social media reported they were hunting a suspect, although this has not been confirmed. Police also evacuated the supermarket and banned people from entering.

       My London reported police officers told people at the scene: "Please leave the area, allow us to do what we need to do to save this man’s life."

       Greenwich MPS confirmed there had been a "fatal stabbing".

       They tweeted: "Officers are at the scene of a fatal stabbing on #Woolwich New Road. A crime scene remains in place.

       "At this early stage there have been no arrests. Please call 101 ref: 5748/05Jul with any information."

       Video footage on social media showed police cars, an air ambulance and other ambulances at the scene.

       A police cordon was also put in place around the scene.

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       A witness wrote on Twitter: "Stabbing in Woolwich. Police everywhere.

       "Two ambulances and air ambulance attending so far."

       Another person added: "Reported stabbing in Woolwich. Armed police and air ambulance in attendance #woolwich."

       The incident also took place in a busy road, with pictures showing a huge crowd gathered behind the police cordon.

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       Some people were reported to have held up sheets to try and give paramedics privacy while they helped the victim.

       Drivers were also warned to avoid the area.

       A Twitter account named Jambuster posted: "A205 Woolwich New Road (SE18) (All Directions) at the junction of Vincent Road.

       "The road is closed due to an emergency services incident.

       "Use an alternative route. Delays are possible on diversion."

       One member of the public was also seen carrying out chest compressions, according to My London.

       Greenwich Council Leader Dan Thorpe urged people to contact police with any information or footage of the incident.

       He wrote on Twitter: "Following the awful incident in #woolwich this afternoon, we are liaising closely with@MPSGreenwich - please do not share footage on line but send through to the police & help us bring those responsible to justice.

       "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and their family.

       "There is likely to be disruption into the area for the remainder of the evening so please avoid the area.

       "Travel disruption is on going in the area and buses are on diversion."

       A Section 60 order has now been issued, which will give police more powers to stop and search people in much of Woolwich until 10am tomorrow.