Two children have died and nine others have been injured, including two adults, after a 17-year-old suspect allegedly carried out a stabbing spree at a dance class in Southport, England, on Monday.
A horrific stabbing spree at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class for young children in Southport, England, has left two children dead and nine others injured, including two adults who were critically wounded while trying to protect the children.
According to Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, the attack occurred around noon on Monday at a dance school on Hart Street. The 17-year-old suspect, from Banks, a village outside of Southport, has been taken into custody and faces charges of murder and attempted murder.
Tragic Stabbing Spree at Taylor Swift-Themed Dance Class Leaves Multiple Dead and Injured
Police said they believe the suspect entered the premises armed with a knife and began attacking the children. The two deceased victims were among six children in critical condition, while the other three injured children were in stable condition. The two adults who were critically injured are reportedly being treated for stab wounds.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and transported the injured victims to Alder Hey Children's Hospital and other facilities. The hospital reported that its emergency department was extremely busy and urged parents to bring their children there only if it was urgent.
Tragic Stabbing Spree at Taylor Swift-Themed Dance Class Leaves Multiple Dead and Injured
The suspect is currently in police custody, and officers are investigating the motive for the attack. Police have stated that they are not currently treating the incident as terror-related and are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
The community of Southport is reeling in shock and mourning after the senseless tragedy. Local residents reported seeing bodies covered in blood and children with stab wounds. One woman was heard screaming that she couldn't find her child.
Tragic Stabbing Spree at Taylor Swift-Themed Dance Class Leaves Multiple Dead and Injured
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his condolences to those affected and praised the police and emergency services for their swift response. He said, "My thoughts are with all those affected. I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response."
The stabbing spree has sparked widespread condemnation and outrage. Merseyside Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell said, "This is a truly horrific incident that has shocked us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families at this time."
Tragic Stabbing Spree at Taylor Swift-Themed Dance Class Leaves Multiple Dead and Injured
The stabbing spree at the dance class has raised concerns about the safety of children and the need for stricter knife control measures. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
