In a tragic incident on Monday, a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, northern England, resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to nine others. Merseyside Police’s Chief Constable Serena Kennedy confirmed that six of the injured children are in critical condition, along with two adults who were also critically wounded in their attempt to protect the children.
The Attack and Arrest
The incident occurred around 11:50 a.m. local time when the police received reports of a stabbing at a dance studio in Southport, north of Liverpool. A 17-year-old boy was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Chief Constable Kennedy explained, “We believe that the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked.”
Witness Accounts
Colin Parry, a local business owner who called the police, described the scene as a “horror movie.” He said, “The mothers are coming here now and screaming. It is like a scene from a horror movie.” Parry directed the police to an address on Hart Street, where the Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance class for children aged six to eleven was taking place.
Another resident recounted a mother’s frantic plea for help. “She was screaming, ‘my daughter’s been stabbed,’” he said. “It was a mum with her 10-year-old daughter who had been stabbed.”
Emergency Response
The Alder Hey Children’s Hospital Trust in Liverpool, about 20 miles from Southport, declared a “major incident.” The hospital issued a statement urging parents to bring their children to the emergency department only if absolutely necessary, given the strain on resources due to the incident.
National Response
The incident has shocked the nation, with King Charles III and Queen Camilla expressing their profound shock and sending heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families. The Royal Family’s statement read, “My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also addressed the nation, saying the “whole country” is deeply shocked by the events in Southport. He expressed condolences to the victims and praised the emergency services for their swift response.
Patrick Hurley, the British MP representing Southport, expressed his deep concern and hopes for the best possible outcomes for the casualties. “My thoughts go out to all those affected, their loved ones, and to the entire community,” Hurley said on social media.
As the investigation continues, the motive behind the attack remains unclear. However, Counterterrorism Police Northwest have offered their support, and the incident is not currently being treated as terror-related.