A murder investigation has not been ruled out after a decomposing body was found in a flat in Finsbury Park.

Officers made the macabre discovery on Monday after being alerted to concerns about a resident’s welfare shortly after midday.

The body is that of 22-year-old Christopher Azzapardi, also known as Chrissie, who lived alone as a woman in the first-floor flat in Wray Crescent.

Detectives from the serious crime and homicide unit are investigating, with the death currently being treated as suspicious.

Pathologists have so far been unable to determine the cause of death partly due to the badly decomposed state of the body, with a post mortem at St Pancras Mortuary on Tuesday proving inconclusive, but further tests are being carried out.

Neighbours described seeing the body being removed and a large police presence at the property for most of Monday, including forensics officers in white boiler suits.

Carole Reynolds, 53, a housewife who has lived in the next door house her whole life, said: “It’s very sad but we don’t know the circumstances of what happened. We were neighbours, but we didn’t really know the person.” Another neighbour said: “I know the person who lives in there to say hello to, but that’s it really. I don’t have a clue what’s happened but it’s very sad.”

The flat is managed by the Circle 33 housing association. Maggie Sherlock, interim managing director, said: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with the resident’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We will work closely with the relevant authorities to assist in the investigation.”

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: “Next of kin have been informed.”

No arrests have been made. Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8247 7821.