Two children have died in a ‘frenzied’ knife attack and nine others injured at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga related event in Southport on Monday, police confirmed.
Speaking at a press conference, chief constable Serena Kennedy said two children were killed in a “ferocious attack”.
Nine other children were injured, including six who were in a critical condition, she added. Two adults who tried to intervene were also in critical condition. All injuries were as a result of stab wounds.
“We can confirm that a 17-year-old male from Banks, near Southport who was arrested in connection to the stabbing in Southport this morning, Monday 29 July, remains in police custody and will be questioned about the incident,” said a Merseyside police statement.
“At this early stage, enquiries are ongoing to establish the motive for this tragic incident and we would urge people not to speculate while the investigation is ongoing.
“We can also confirm that the incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident,” it said.
“The investigation is at its early stages and the motivation for the incident remains unclear. However, Counter-Terrorism Police North-West have offered their support to Merseyside police as the full circumstances of what has happened are being established.”
King Charles said that it was a “truly appalling attack.”
“My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport today,” Charles said in a statement. “We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives.”
Horrendous and deeply shocking news emerging from Southport. My thoughts are with all those affected.
I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response.
I am being kept updated as the situation develops.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 29, 2024
“The whole country is deeply shocked,” said Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, offering his condolences to the victims of the attack and their families and friends.
“The events today are just truly awful and I know the whole country is deeply shocked about what they’ve seen and what they’ve heard.
“I know I speak for everyone in the whole country in saying, our thoughts and condolences are with the victims, their families, their friends and the wider community and it’s almost impossible to imagine the grief that they’re going through, and the trauma that they’re going through.
“I do want to thank the emergency services and Merseyside Police who have had to respond to the most difficult of circumstances today.”
(Agencies/Reuters)
