Tragedy struck a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in a town in northern England when a knife attack resulted in the death of two children and left nine others injured. The incident, which occurred in Southport, north of Liverpool, saw six of the injured children in critical condition along with two adults.
According to Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, the attacker entered the premises armed with a knife and began targeting the children. It is believed that the injured adults were attempting to shield the children from the assailant.
Emergency services responded to the scene following reports of a stabbing, with a 17-year-old boy being arrested. While the motivation behind the attack remains unclear, Counterterrorism Police Northwest have offered their support to the ongoing investigation.
Local witnesses described the scene as reminiscent of a horror movie, with one business owner recounting the chaos and panic that ensued. The incident took place during a Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance class for children aged six to 11.
The Alder Hey Children's Hospital Trust in Liverpool declared a major incident in response to the influx of casualties. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed shock and condolences for the victims and their families, emphasizing the profound impact of the tragic event on the entire country.
Members of the royal family, including King Charles III and his wife, Queen Camilla, as well as the Prince and Princess of Wales, extended their sympathies to those affected by the heinous attack. British MP Patrick Hurley conveyed deep concern for the incident and expressed solidarity with the casualties and the community at large.
