Woman (41) arrested after child (4) dies in London knife attack

Police were called to an address in Montague Road, Hackney, on Wednesday following concerns about the welfare of a child

Forensic officers at a property on Montague Road in east London, where a four-year-old boy has died after suffering knife injuries. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA Wire
Forensic officers at a property on Montague Road in east London, where a four-year-old boy has died after suffering knife injuries. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA Wire

The Department of Foreign Affairs is providing assistance following the death of a four-year-old child in a London knife attack.

Police were called to an address in Montague Road, Hackney, on Wednesday night following concerns about the welfare of a child.

Inside, officers found a four-year-old boy who had suffered knife injuries. A murder investigation is now underway.

A spokesman for the Department said it was aware of the case and was providing consular assistance, but did not comment on the specifics of the case.

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The boy was rushed to hospital but despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he later died from his injuries.

A 41-year-old woman, who was known to the boy, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and remains in custody, the UK capital’s Metropolitan Police said.

The force said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident and that the boy’s next of kin had been informed.

Det chief supt James Conway said: “This is an extremely distressing incident which will understandably cause shock and disbelief among the local community and those who attended the scene.

“We are working with our partners, including Hackney Council and the school community, to ensure support is there for people who need it.

“Specialist officers from our homicide team are progressing this investigation and continue to work to establish the circumstances of this young child’s death, and the events that led up to it.

“This incident occurred within the home and, while there is no wider public safety risk, additional officers will be present in the area as we recognise the impact this will have on the community.” – PA