Police said the victim, 36, was pushing child in a pram when she was attacked from behind

This article is more than 8 months old

This article is more than 8 months old

A woman was stabbed repeatedly in front of her child in an unprovoked attack in Streatham, south London, police have said.

The 36-year-old was pushing her child in a pram in Downton Avenue, Streatham Hill, when she was stabbed three times from behind by a lone attacker.

Police were called to the scene on Monday evening shortly before 5.30pm, and the victim was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening or life-changing injuries. Her child, whose age has not been released, was not hurt during the attack.

The Metropolitan police confirmed on Tuesday morning they were seeking a male suspect in connection with the incident, but have not yet made any arrests. The “extensive” investigation was focusing on CCTV footage in the area and forensic work from the scene.

The suspect, who did not speak to the victim during the incident, was described as being 6ft tall, black, and wearing dark clothing. He fled the scene immediately after the attack.

The victim was not thought to have known the suspect, and motivations for the attack remained unclear. The Met said officers “retain an open mind as to any motive”, as inquiries continued.

Anyone with information was asked to call 101 quoting reference CAD5169/20 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.