The Metropolitan Police said officers were called Chadwell Heath, east London, just after 5.30am on Saturday after reports of an assault.
Paramedics also attended but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene in Chadwell Heath Lane, the force said.
The woman has not yet been formally identified, police said, but officers believe she was in her twenties.
Her family have been informed and are being supported by family liaison officers, the force added.
No-one has yet been arrested in connection with the incident.
Detective Superintendent Brian Hobbs said: “Our thoughts today are with the victim’s family and friends in light of this truly tragic event.
“Local residents will see an increased number of officers in and around the area while our investigative work is carried out.
“I want to thank residents for their patience while this continues. I would ask anyone who was in the area of Romford, who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, to come forward to us.”
Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact police via 101 quoting 1625/16Aug, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.