Woman arrested after two children found dead in Stoke-on-Trent

Two young children, aged seven and eleven, have been discovered dead in Stoke-on-Trent, leading to the arrest of a woman on suspicion of murder. The tragic incident unfolded after police initially responded to a stabbing report involving a man and a woman at a car wash on Campbell Road just after 2pm on Sunday. A man in his 40s was taken to the hospital and later released. Police then proceeded to a residence on Flax Street, where they found the unresponsive and injured children. Despite receiving medical attention from paramedics, both children, whose names have not been disclosed, died at the scene.

A 49-year-old woman, initially arrested in connection with the stabbing, has been further arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. Staffordshire Police have voluntarily referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to recent police contact with the individuals involved.

Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Hannan confirmed the ages of the deceased children, stating, “Our priority was to inform the family before confirming the ages of the children. They are currently being supported by specially trained officers.” She added that the arrested woman is known to the children, and there is no wider threat to the public at this time.

“Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the children. I cannot imagine the pain and shock they are feeling,” said DCI Hannan, acknowledging the local concern and speculation surrounding the incident. Detectives are appealing for information and are particularly interested in any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area of Flax Street and Campbell Road between 1.30pm and 2.30pm on Sunday. They also urge anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward.

DCI Hannan concluded, “Our focus remains on finding out more about what happened and supporting the family at this deeply distressing and tragic time.”