Man arrested after a woman and two children stabbed in east London

A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a woman and two children were stabbed in east London, police said.

Police were called to reports of a stabbing in Dagenham at about 5.30pm on Friday.

A woman believed to be in her 30s, an eight-year-old girl and a two-year-old boy were found with stab injuries on First Avenue, and remain in hospital, the Metropolitan police said.

The girl’s injuries are not life threatening, the Met said, but it was awaiting an update on the condition of the other two victims.

London ambulance service and London’s air ambulance were also called to the scene.

The Met said a man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and was also taken to hospital after being unwell. He was later discharged into police custody.

Det Supt Lewis Basford, responsible for policing in Barking and Dagenham, said: “At this early stage, we believe those involved were known to each other and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.

“A crime scene will remain in place for some time while our officers carry out vital work and you will see an increased policing presence in the area over the coming days. If you have any concerns or information that could assist police then please speak to an officer or call police on 101.”

The Met said earlier: “Police were called at approximately 5.35pm to reports of a stabbing on First Avenue, Dagenham. The Metropolitan police, London ambulance service and London’s air ambulance all attended the scene.

“A woman and two female children were found suffering stab injuries – they have been taken to hospital for treatment. A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder … A crime scene remains in place.”