Neighbours speak on boy, 4, stabbed to death in Hackney

Police were called to Montague Road, Hackney, on Wednesday (December 20) at around 10.50pm after receiving a call raising concerns about a child.

Emergency services found the boy, 4, with knife injuries. He was rushed to hospital for treatment but later died from his injuries.

Police outside the house (Image: PA)

One man told the Gazette that “it was a panic” when police reached the street last night, with video footage showing officers running back and forth.

Another police car was parked further away from the house, while a crowd gathered outside to find out what was going on.

Forensic investigators were seen going in and out of the house today (December 21) while a single officer stood outside.

A mum of three, who lives in the area, said: “Two police officers were seen crying and shaking.”

Police outside the house (Image: PA)

She expressed her shock about the death.

The mum, 36, added: “The child was energetic and often seen out with his scooter”.

Another neighbour said while recording footage of police in the area: “There’s a lot of police running about, top and bottom, they’re coming from all directions.”

He continued: “No one is walking, everyone is running. So someone’s life is on the line.”

Forensics at the house (Image: PA)

Police tape was today stretched across part of the street, blocking access to a house.

The Metropolitan Police say the boy's next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

A woman, 41, who was known to the boy, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

The Met said that while enquiries are ongoing, officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who leads policing for Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “This is an extremely distressing incident which will understandably cause shock and disbelief amongst 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 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.”