A woman and two children are being treated in hospital after being stabbed in east London this evening.
Police were called to reports of a stabbing in First Avenue, Dagenham at around 5:35pm today, and found a woman believed to be in her 30s, and two children – a girl believed to be eight and a boy believed to be two.
London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance arrived at the scene and all three victims were rushed to a nearby hospital.
Police have said they are still awaiting updates on the condition of the woman and the two-year-old.
The older child’s injuries were said to not be life threatening, according to police.
The Metropolitan Police said a man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, and was also rushed to hospital after being taken ill.
After being examined, he was discharged and taken into police custody.
Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford said: ‘This is a truly shocking attack and I want to thank local residents for their assistance and patience while we deal with this incident.
‘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.’
He also urged anyone who may have information to come forward.
Images show officers at the crime scene, as well as a forensic tent.
The area surrounding First Avenue remains cordoned off while officers investigate the case further.