Two children have died and nine others, including six critically, were injured in a violent knife attack at a children’s dance class in Southport, UK. Two adults, who attempted to protect the children, are also in critical condition. A 17-year-old from Banks, Lancashire, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, though police have indicated that the motive is unclear and the incident is not considered terrorism-related.
Witnesses described the attack as “horrendous,” with one remarking they had “never seen anything like it.” The King and Prime Minister have extended their condolences to the victims’ families.
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Emergency services, including armed response vehicles, 13 ambulances, and the fire service, responded quickly after receiving calls at 11:47 BST. The attack occurred during a Taylor Swift-themed event for children aged six to ten at the Hope of Hart dance school. Chief Constable Serena Kennedy expressed shock at the severity of the attack and sympathy for the victims’ families.
The suspect, a 17-year-old from Cardiff, will be questioned by detectives, and no other suspects are being sought. Counter-Terrorism Police North West are assisting, but the incident is not being treated as terror-related.
Alder Hey Children’s Hospital declared a major incident following a violent attack, prompting the North West Ambulance Service to dispatch 13 ambulances. Eleven casualties received on-site treatment before being transported to various hospitals.
Dave Kitchin from the ambulance service described the scene as “devastating” and noted that the incident would have a lasting impact on the community. Colin Parry, a local business owner, reported seeing a young man in a green hoodie involved in an altercation before the attack started, and later witnessed numerous injured children, describing the situation as “like something from America, not like sunny Southport.”
The King, Queen, Prince, and Princess of Wales expressed profound shock and condolences via social media. The King conveyed deep sympathies for the victims and their families, while the Prince and Princess described the attack as “horrid and heinous,” sending their love and prayers. They also praised the emergency responders for their professionalism.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed the nation’s shock and extended condolences to the victims and their families, thanking the emergency services and Merseyside Police. Southport FC canceled a pre-season match as a mark of respect, and Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs offered their condolences.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Southport MP Patrick Hurley expressed concern and hope for the injured. Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram urged against spreading misinformation, and local officials pledged support for the community. Additionally, Taylor Swift fans have organized a fundraiser, “Swifties for Southport,” to help the victims and their families.
