PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A 46-year-old man is facing attempted murder charges after a mother and her toddler were stabbed in Providence on Wednesday afternoon, according to police.
Officers responded to the area near Broad and Public Streets, where they found a woman in her late 20s and her 2-year-old daughter suffering from stab wounds to their upper bodies and faces.
Both victims were rushed to Rhode Island Hospital for treatment. Authorities reported that the toddler remains in critical condition, while the mother is in stable condition.
Police arrested Nelson Blanco, 46, in connection with the attack. Investigators believe Blanco did not know the victims, and the motive remains under investigation.
Blanco faces several felony charges, including:
- Two counts of assault with intent to commit murder
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Breaking and entering into the dwelling of a person over the age of 60
- Possession of a knife while committing a crime of violence
- Possession of a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches
According to court records, Blanco has a criminal history dating back to 1999 that includes prior charges for assault and battery, breaking and entering, and possession of a stolen vehicle. His arraignment is scheduled for Thursday morning.

















