A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a woman and three children were stabbed at an address in north London.
Police were called at 12.13pm on Saturday to Livingstone Road, a residential street off the North Circular Road, in Bounds Green in the borough of Enfield.
A woman aged in her thirties and three girls all aged under 12 were found suffering from serious stab injuries.
Following intensive treatment at hospital the woman and two of the children are now in a non-life threatening condition. One girl aged 11 remains in a critical condition, police said.
DS Joe Stewart said: “This was an appalling attack on a woman and her young children.
“They have sustained very serious injuries. Our thoughts are with them as they continue to receive vital treatment in hospital.
“Attacks like this on such young people are extremely rare.
“At this early stage of the investigation, we are not looking for anyone else in relation to this incident. The attacker was known to the victims.
“There is no further risk to the public at this time.
“The family have understandably want privacy at this difficult time and do not wish to speak with media.
“If you have information about this incident I would urge you to get in touch and speak with investigators.”
Livingstone Road is closed at the junction with Bowes Road A406 a cordon is in place while enquiries continue. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD3735/06July or Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111.