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A mother has been held after four babies were found stabbed to death in a gated apartment complex.

Officers said they were "shocked to the core" after discovering the tragic tots at a home in a quiet neighbourhood in Memphis.

While officials have not yet released names or ages of the mother or the victims, they have described the children as "babies."

They took the mother into custody after finding the children's bodies just after 12.50pm yesterday.

Following the discovery yesterday afternoon, Shelby County Sheriff Bill Oldham said: "This is an egregious act of evil that has shocked us to our core.

(Image: Facebook/Shelby County Sheriff's Office)

"I will never understand how anyone can do this."

He did not confirm whether the mother had killed the children, and said it was still being investigated whether she has any mental health issues.

The sheriff added: "One of the most difficult questions in any investigation is always, 'Why did this happen?'

(Image: WSMV)

"We are certainly going to offer our condolences and prayers to the family."

According to The Memphis Commercial Appeal a seven-year-old, escaped the apartment before the 29-year-old mother was arrested by Shelby County officers, but no charges were listed.

The state Department of Children's Services said it had not dealt with the deceased children.

(Image: WSMV)

Sky News reported that neighbour said he often saw the "very open and friendly" children, who he believed were all under age six, playing in the front garden.

Another neighbour Patricia Johnson, burst into tears when she learned of the deaths.

(Image: WSMV)

"I can't fathom that," she said. "What would babies do to make you do that?"

Ms Johnson told reporters she would be praying for the whole family.

"Something went wrong, drastically wrong," she said.

(Image: WSMV)

People have also paid tribute o the youngsters on Facebook.

Misty Hutcheson wrote: "So sad!! Whoever did this will one day be answering to God, and will get the ultimate punishment! Praying for the families."