A five-year-old boy and his 37-year-old mother have been stabbed to death.

Police say a 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the bodies were found at an address in Brookside South, Osidge, Barnet at lunchtime today (June 21).

Officers were called by paramedics just after 1.30pm and an air ambulance was also sent to the scene.

The boy and her mum were pronounced dead at the scene. They have not been named at this time.

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The Metropolitan Police have confirmed a man has been arrested in connection with the deaths and he is currently in police custody. The force added the suspect and the victims were known to each other.

Chief Superintendent Sara Leach, police commander for north west London, said: "The whole community will be shocked and saddened to hear of this terrible incident.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman and child who have died and also with the officers and paramedics who were first to arrive at what was an incredibly challenging scene.

"Specialist detectives are working to establish what took place and a man is in custody.

"While they are keeping an open mind as to what has taken place, I would like to reassure residents in the local area that there is nothing to indicate, at this stage, that anyone else was involved in this incident."

She added: "I would urge anyone who saw or heard anything unusual earlier today, or in recent days, to come forward and speak to the police.

"Your information could be vital as the investigation moves forward."

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Information can be provided to police by calling 101 with the reference 3590/21JUN.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.