Greenwich hammer attack leaves two women critical
Police have arrested the main suspect in an unprovoked hammer attack in Greenwich, south east London, which left a mother and daughter fighting for their lives.
Detectives had appealed for urgent public assistance in locating Joe Xuereb, 27, after he allegedly attacked the women at random in Adderley Gardens this afternoon.
Horrified witnesses described how one victim was left with her "face hanging off".
The two women, aged 64 and 30, were rushed to hospital where they remain in a critical condition, police said.
A hammer was recovered from the scene which was "believed to have been used in the assault", a police spokesman said.
Following the appeal for help from the public, police said a woman recognised Xuereb and followed him in her car.
Scotland Yard confirmed they had arrested Xuereb on suspicion of attempted murder at Old Farm Avenue, Sidcup, south-east London.
The broad daylight attack in a residential street terrified witnesses as they rushed to help the two women.
One bystander said the pair were “covered in blood” after the unprovoked attack.
One woman, who asked not to be named, said: "It was horrific.
"They were definitely life-changing injuries.
"She was hit in the face and the head, and the other woman was hit in the head. I'm worried they won't survive."
Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan said: “I would like to pass my thanks to the public and the media for all their support.
"I am extremely proud of my colleagues and the community, who have all done so much to bring this part of the investigation to a safe resolution. It shows what can be achieved when we all work together.”
A Met Police statement said: “The arrest follows an incident at approximately 12:10hrs to reports of a serious assault at Adderley Gardens, SE9.
"Officers attended along with colleagues from London Ambulance Service.
"Two females, believed to be aged 64 and 30, were found with injuries consistent with a violent assault.
"A hammer has been recovered by officers and police believe this may have been used in the assaults.
"Both victims have been taken to south London hospitals where they both remain in a critical condition.
"The two women are believed to be mother and daughter; next of next of kin have been informed.
"A crime scene is in place and enquiries continue."
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