The woman, believed to be 37 years old, and her child were found with knife wounds on a property in Brookside South, Barnet at 1:37 p.m. Metropolitan Police officers, doctors and an ambulance from London were present, but the couple could not be saved and their death was confirmed at the scene. A 37-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder, Scotland Yard said, and an investigation has been launched by the Met’s special crime unit. The victims and the detainee were known to each other, police confirmed, and the PA news agency reported that medical examiners were still at the scene Tuesday night. A section of the road was cordoned off by police patrolling it, escorting shocked residents in and out, while the entrance to a property on the same street was also closed, with an officer standing outside. What appeared to be a forensic van was parked outside and blue-haired people appeared to be gathering outside. Ch Supt Sara Leach, police chief for north-west London, including Barnet, said: “The whole community will be shocked and saddened to hear of this horrific incident. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman and child who died, as well as with the police and paramedics who arrived first in an incredibly provocative scene. “Detective experts are working to find out what happened and a man is in custody. “While keeping an open mind as to what happened, I would like to assure the locals that there is nothing to show, at this stage, that anyone else is involved in this incident. “I will urge anyone who has seen or heard anything unusual earlier today or in recent days to come and talk to the police. “Your information could be vital as the research progresses.” Information can be given to the police by calling 101 with the reference number 3590 / 21JUN. Alternatively, you can donate to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, at 0800 555 111.
