A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a stabbing incident involving a woman and two young children in Dagenham, east London. Emergency services, including police, the London Ambulance Service, and the Air Ambulance, responded to reports of the incident on First Avenue at around 17:35 BST on Friday.
The victims, a woman in her 30s, an eight-year-old girl, and a two-year-old boy, were found with stab wounds and taken to a nearby hospital. Their injuries are not considered life-threatening, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The suspect was detained at the scene but required medical attention and was taken to the hospital after becoming unwell. He has since been released from the hospital and remains in police custody.
Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, overseeing policing in Barking and Dagenham, stated that the individuals involved are believed to have known each other, and authorities are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.
“This was a deeply disturbing attack, and I want to extend my gratitude to the local community for their cooperation and understanding as we continue our investigation,” said Det Supt Basford. He added that a crime scene will remain in place, and there will be an increased police presence in the area in the coming days.
Police have asked anyone with information about the incident to come forward or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.