A 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a double murder after two women were found stabbed to death in neighbouring houses.

Detectives described the incident in Birmingham as “domestic-related” and said they believed the suspect and the victims were known to each other.

The first woman, aged 43, was found with stab injuries after officers were called to house in the Mosely area of the city at 11am on Monday.

She was pronounced dead at the scene in Belle Walk from stab injuries.

A second woman, aged 52, was found seriously injured in the house next door and died shortly after arriving at hospital.

West Midlands Police said they had launched a double murder inquiry.

“The tragic events of this morning appear to be domestic related as it’s thought the suspect and the two victims are known to each other,” said Detective Inspector Nick Barnes.

“We’ve closed the area while forensic examinations are carried out and we’ve got specially trained officers supporting the families at this devastating time.

“Two women have lost their lives and we’re doing all we can to understand the circumstances of this tragedy.”

West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) said two ambulances, an advanced paramedic in a critical care car and the West Midlands CARE Team were sent to the scene.

“On arrival, crews found one woman who was sadly confirmed deceased on scene,” the WMAS said in a statement.

“A second woman sustained serious injuries and was in a critical condition. She was given advanced life support before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to hospital.