Three children have tragically lost their lives and seven others are in critical condition following stabbings at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport on Monday.
Merseyside Police confirmed on Tuesday that a 9-year-old girl was the third child to pass away from injuries sustained in the knife attack in Southport.
This devastating incident took place at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga workshop on Hart Street in Southport. Police arrived at the scene shortly before noon on Monday to find multiple casualties, most of them children with serious injuries.
Five children and two adults remain in critical condition after the attack. The two adults bravely tried to shield the pupils from the attacker.
Ongoing Investigation
A 17-year-old male from Lancashire was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. He remains in custody and is currently being questioned by detectives. The incident is not believed to be terror-related at this time.
“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the motive for this tragic incident and we urge people to refrain from speculating until the investigation is complete,” Merseyside Police stated.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who visited Southport on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of refraining from speculation or commentary on the ongoing investigation until updates are provided by the police.
“Merseyside Police are leading this extremely important and serious criminal investigation. This was a horrific attack and they need to be able to get on with that work, and they will provide us with updates.
Joined by local MP Patrick Hurley, Yvette Cooper laid flowers at the police cordon on Hart Street. She has expressed gratitude to the emergency services for their swift response to the attack.
Yvette Cooper expressed her condolences and support for the families affected by the tragedy on social media.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer may also be visiting Southport to show solidarity with the affected families and community.
“The loss of life and innocence, and the trauma inflicted on everyone present at the dance class, the families, and first responders – it’s heartbreaking. These were just children at a dance class. I am at a loss for words to convey my sympathies to these families,” Taylor Swift expressed in a post on social media.
Donations are being collected through the Swifties for Southport fundraiser to assist the affected families.
A vigil in support of those affected by the tragedy is planned in Southport on Tuesday evening.
“I want to show these families that the entire community in Southport stands with you,” stated vigil organizer Karlie Walker.
King Charles has also condemned the stabbings in Southport, calling it a tragic incident.
PA Media contributed to this report.
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