A criminal investigation is underway after a man was arrested in connection with an incident that has left a two-year-old girl fighting for her life.

Detectives are trying to establish the circumstances that led to the toddler being airlifted to hospital on Wednesday afternoon.

Police said they were called to reports of a medical incident Milton Grove in Shotton Colliery.

Read more: County Durham toddler fighting for her life as man is arrested

The youngster was flown to the RVI in Newcastle, where she remains, by the Great North Air Ambulance.

Police have confirmed a man in his 20s has been arrested on suspicion of assault with intent to cause serious harm.

The suspect remains in police custody for questioning by officers.

Police remain at the scene and today (Thursday September 29) forensic investigators have been treating the mid-terraced house as a crime scene.

The Northern Echo: Forensic investigators at the scene Forensic investigators at the scene (Image: Forensic investigators at the scene)

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Durham Constabulary has asked the community to allow them to carry out their investigation after a police car was damaged when emergency services first attended.

Detective Chief Inspector Christopher Barker said: “We appreciate that friends, family and neighbours are deeply concerned by this incident, but we ask that the community refrains from speculation over the circumstances or naming of those involved online.

“A police vehicle was deliberately damaged whilst in attendance at the scene, and I’d like to remind the public that obstructing our officers as they carry out their enquiries is not helpful.

“Please allow us the space to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the incident.”

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