Authorities have disclosed the identity of the 17-year-old suspect involved in the tragic incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in the United Kingdom. The suspect, Axel Rudakubana, is set to turn 18 in six days, as confirmed by local reports.
Judge Andrew Menary made the decision to allow the suspect's identity to be revealed, citing the imminent age milestone as a determining factor. This ruling is considered exceptional due to British law typically safeguarding the anonymity of criminal suspects under the age of 18.
Rudakubana stands accused of perpetrating a stabbing spree during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class for young children in Southport, a town located north of Liverpool. Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy reported that six children and two adults sustained critical injuries in the attack.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of three young victims: Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9; Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7; and Bebe King, 6. The assailant reportedly entered the dance school armed with a knife, prompting courageous adults to intervene in defense of the children.
Following the violence, Southport experienced unrest, with clashes erupting between protesters and law enforcement. North West Ambulance Services attended to 22 police officers, with 11 requiring hospital treatment. Additionally, a police van was set on fire amidst the chaos.
Despite the turmoil, sources indicate that the town has since returned to a state of calm following the tragic events.
